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Core Four: The One
Miley, a legal assistant rebuilding her life after a devastating divorce, finds herself drawn into the chaotic world of Greylan Asher, a famous country singer haunted by tragedy. Their connection ignites with intense feeling as Greylan, accused of a crime he didn't commit, is desperate to clear his name and escape the shadows of his past.
As Miley fights for his innocence, their bond strengthens, marked by steamy encounters and the shared journey of confronting their fears and insecurities.
The One captures the heart-wrenching and heartwarming moments that shape us, blending raw emotion with a touch of humor. This is a story of healing, acceptance, and the power of love to overcome even the darkest of traumas. Dive into this emotional romance, the first installment of the Core Four series, where suspense and passion collide.
As Miley fights for his innocence, their bond strengthens, marked by steamy encounters and the shared journey of confronting their fears and insecurities.
The One captures the heart-wrenching and heartwarming moments that shape us, blending raw emotion with a touch of humor. This is a story of healing, acceptance, and the power of love to overcome even the darkest of traumas. Dive into this emotional romance, the first installment of the Core Four series, where suspense and passion collide.
308 pages, Paperback
Published June 13, 2025
4 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
September 12, 2025
4⭐️ This book was a lot of fun! I really enjoyed how the story came full circle. The characters were engaging, and I especially appreciated the mental health representation. It was handled with care and authenticity.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s writing style. I genuinely mean that. I haven’t eyeball read a book this quickly in a while, and that’s entirely due to the smooth flow of the writing.
At times, the story gave off some Hallmark-style insta-love vibes, but I felt it balanced out by the end as the relationship developed more naturally.
For a debut novel, this is a strong start. I have a feeling each book will only get better, and I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s writing style. I genuinely mean that. I haven’t eyeball read a book this quickly in a while, and that’s entirely due to the smooth flow of the writing.
At times, the story gave off some Hallmark-style insta-love vibes, but I felt it balanced out by the end as the relationship developed more naturally.
For a debut novel, this is a strong start. I have a feeling each book will only get better, and I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
September 14, 2025
What a fantastic debut! Once I started, I couldn’t put it down. The writing and characters pulled me in from the very beginning, and I felt this story. The emotion was perfectly blended with humor and vulnerability, never forced but evolving naturally. It had such an authentic feel, like real life unfolding on the page.
The characters and their struggles were relatable, and Miley is the kind of character you see as a best friend, or reflection of yourself. The pacing was spot-on, keeping me engaged from start to finish.
I can’t wait for the next book! This interconnected standalone delivers a satisfying HEA and is told in dual first-person POV.
The characters and their struggles were relatable, and Miley is the kind of character you see as a best friend, or reflection of yourself. The pacing was spot-on, keeping me engaged from start to finish.
I can’t wait for the next book! This interconnected standalone delivers a satisfying HEA and is told in dual first-person POV.
November 13, 2025
4/5⭐️
2/5🌶️
This was such a sweet story, and I'm so glad that Sara reached out about me giving this a read. I loved our two damaged MCs: our FMC, coming off of the divorce of her relationship for 10 years, and our MMC, who was still lost years after losing his sister. Their relationship build was really cute and endearing... our MMC was so steadfast in his pursuit of our FMC it was swoony! The trials of their relationship, of a rockstar falling in love with a 'normal' woman, is always going to be a fun tale of how they make it work. Couple this with our MCs needing to work through their various traumas and we had a really intriguing plot throughout the story. And I think on top of all this, the fact that this story was inspired by the Sara losing her own sister suddenly and channeling her own grief into her writing. You can tell how personal the story is throughout, and there were so many touching moments. This was really special to read, and I enjoyed it.
Thank you, Sara, for reaching out and gifting me a copy of your book!
2/5🌶️
This was such a sweet story, and I'm so glad that Sara reached out about me giving this a read. I loved our two damaged MCs: our FMC, coming off of the divorce of her relationship for 10 years, and our MMC, who was still lost years after losing his sister. Their relationship build was really cute and endearing... our MMC was so steadfast in his pursuit of our FMC it was swoony! The trials of their relationship, of a rockstar falling in love with a 'normal' woman, is always going to be a fun tale of how they make it work. Couple this with our MCs needing to work through their various traumas and we had a really intriguing plot throughout the story. And I think on top of all this, the fact that this story was inspired by the Sara losing her own sister suddenly and channeling her own grief into her writing. You can tell how personal the story is throughout, and there were so many touching moments. This was really special to read, and I enjoyed it.
Thank you, Sara, for reaching out and gifting me a copy of your book!
October 20, 2025
Finished this in a day, and would give it 4-4.25 ⭐️ and 🌶️.
I loved the way this story unfolded it was so beautiful. The writing kept me interested, through text messages, and legal prompts, the love story and the mental health awareness was so beautifully done.
Miley and Greyland meet under the most unusual circumstances, where he has to clear his name for being accused of a crime he did not commit. They both suffer anxiety attacks and have to deal with those over the course of the story.
We got to see how Greyland dealt with his past trauma and how Miley helped him. We see how Greyland helps Miley with her fear of death and the unknown. They are both strong characters and I related to them both. The side characters were also so strong and I wanted to see more from them.
I will absolutely be reading the rest! Thank you to Sara for this copy of the book!
I loved the way this story unfolded it was so beautiful. The writing kept me interested, through text messages, and legal prompts, the love story and the mental health awareness was so beautifully done.
Miley and Greyland meet under the most unusual circumstances, where he has to clear his name for being accused of a crime he did not commit. They both suffer anxiety attacks and have to deal with those over the course of the story.
We got to see how Greyland dealt with his past trauma and how Miley helped him. We see how Greyland helps Miley with her fear of death and the unknown. They are both strong characters and I related to them both. The side characters were also so strong and I wanted to see more from them.
I will absolutely be reading the rest! Thank you to Sara for this copy of the book!
July 2, 2025
I never get hooked on a book from the first chapter… but this romcom completely stole my attention and didn’t let go! From the witty banter to the swoon-worthy romance, it had the perfect mix of heart, hilarity, and just the right amount of spice to keep things fun and flirty.
The characters were lovable, the chemistry was off the charts, and I found myself smiling (and blushing) through so many scenes. It was equal parts laugh-out-loud funny and deeply romantic — the kind of book you stay up way too late reading because you have to know what happens next.
If you’re looking for a feel-good story that delivers on love, laughs, and a little heat, this is it. I’m officially obsessed!
The characters were lovable, the chemistry was off the charts, and I found myself smiling (and blushing) through so many scenes. It was equal parts laugh-out-loud funny and deeply romantic — the kind of book you stay up way too late reading because you have to know what happens next.
If you’re looking for a feel-good story that delivers on love, laughs, and a little heat, this is it. I’m officially obsessed!
June 29, 2025
Had the privilege of being an ARC reader, and this book is a must read. Sara does an amazing job of combining light heartedness with some deeper struggles many of us have faced in a perfect balance. It’s a great story that reminds you it’s never too late to start over or change your path your path in life, and that we owe it to ourselves to do what makes us happy. If we don’t, are we really living?
October 24, 2025
I loved this one and loved the emotional pull it had on me! I loved the mental health rep as well and think it was done well. The chemistry between the FMC and MMC was good and I loved the emails back and forth at the beginning. I loved how each of the characters problems were relatable and helped you understand them. Overall I really enjoyed Miley and Greyland’s story and getting to see them help each other through their struggles. I am excited to see what’s next for this author! 💖
December 30, 2025
Core Four: The One by Sara Burwell is an emotional, gripping romance that pulled me in right from the start. Miley's journey of rebuilding her life after heartbreak feels raw and real, and her connection with Greylan Asher is intense, complicated, and impossible to ignore. The mix of vulnerability, passion, and suspense kept the story moving and made their bond feel earned.
What truly stood out to me was the depth of emotion woven throughout the book. From the struggle to overcome past trauma to the hope that comes with healing and acceptance, this story hits both heart-wrenching and heartwarming moments beautifully. The chemistry is undeniable, the stakes feel high, and the emotional payoff is so satisfying.
I also absolutely loved the friendship between the group of girls. It's supportive, genuine, and the kind of bond you can't help but root for. That alone makes me excited to see where the rest of the Core Four series goes. This was a powerful first installment, and I can't wait for the next book.
What truly stood out to me was the depth of emotion woven throughout the book. From the struggle to overcome past trauma to the hope that comes with healing and acceptance, this story hits both heart-wrenching and heartwarming moments beautifully. The chemistry is undeniable, the stakes feel high, and the emotional payoff is so satisfying.
I also absolutely loved the friendship between the group of girls. It's supportive, genuine, and the kind of bond you can't help but root for. That alone makes me excited to see where the rest of the Core Four series goes. This was a powerful first installment, and I can't wait for the next book.
December 10, 2025
4.5 🌟 i cannot believe this is a debut!! sara really said first book who?? and wrote an amazing story that was so engaging, i was hooked from the start and ended up finishing it within 24 hours!
miley instantly felt like a character i knew in real life. the way her deep rooted fear of death is written had me nodding like yep that is 100% me too (unfortunately 😭), it made me connect to her so much more and honestly made the whole reading experience hit on a different level.
the romance had the perfect amount of sweetness and tension (the emails & texts they were sending omggg 🫦), i was smiling at my kindle like a total idiot 🤭 the connection between miley and greylan felt so natural too. their mental health struggles were handled with so much care and it made their relationship feel even more meaningful which i love since it’s definitely a delicate topic to read and write about.
i really adored this and i am already so excited to read whatever sara writes next (a sequel for sutton or colbie perhaps?? 🤭🩷) thank you sara for sending me a copy of your book!
miley instantly felt like a character i knew in real life. the way her deep rooted fear of death is written had me nodding like yep that is 100% me too (unfortunately 😭), it made me connect to her so much more and honestly made the whole reading experience hit on a different level.
the romance had the perfect amount of sweetness and tension (the emails & texts they were sending omggg 🫦), i was smiling at my kindle like a total idiot 🤭 the connection between miley and greylan felt so natural too. their mental health struggles were handled with so much care and it made their relationship feel even more meaningful which i love since it’s definitely a delicate topic to read and write about.
i really adored this and i am already so excited to read whatever sara writes next (a sequel for sutton or colbie perhaps?? 🤭🩷) thank you sara for sending me a copy of your book!
November 24, 2025
Y’all… who even am I right now?! 😂 I’ve been picking up more and more romance lately and I’m absolutely LOVING it. This one was sent to me by the author herself (thank you SO much, Sara! 💛), and I’m so glad I got the chance to read her debut.
This story is an emotional, heart-squeezing romance that dives into some heavy themes—drug use, sibling loss, trauma, anxiety/panic—but does it in a way that feels incredibly real and relatable. And the romance? 👀
Let’s just say it’ll warm your heart and make your cheeks a little pink. 🌶️😉
I didn’t expect to love the celebrity romance trope as much as I do, but here we are. And as a Southern girl who may be a rock-girl at heart but still loves a little country? A tortured country musician MMC was definitely speaking my language. 🎸💛
Beyond the emotional and spicy moments, the story also highlights the strength of friendship, which I adored. Overall, this was such a beautiful debut and a perfect blend of heart, heat, and healing.
This story is an emotional, heart-squeezing romance that dives into some heavy themes—drug use, sibling loss, trauma, anxiety/panic—but does it in a way that feels incredibly real and relatable. And the romance? 👀
Let’s just say it’ll warm your heart and make your cheeks a little pink. 🌶️😉
I didn’t expect to love the celebrity romance trope as much as I do, but here we are. And as a Southern girl who may be a rock-girl at heart but still loves a little country? A tortured country musician MMC was definitely speaking my language. 🎸💛
Beyond the emotional and spicy moments, the story also highlights the strength of friendship, which I adored. Overall, this was such a beautiful debut and a perfect blend of heart, heat, and healing.
August 12, 2025
I just finished the book last night, and for a debut, I think it’s a good start! It felt more like women’s fiction than pure romance because of the themes, and I really appreciated how Sara explored mental health, especially anxiety and grief. I also thought the use of emails and the court hearing added such a unique touch. It was weaved in very well and it never felt out of place.
The way she had introduced the other characters to set up the series was also done well - there were just enough hints about future pairings to make me curious for what’s next.
On the romance side, it might just be me, I felt it leaned more towards insta love than a burn. Since that’s how I felt things started here, it meant the romance felt faster and perhaps a little more out of the blue in the beginning given the professional relationship dynamic (though I liked how the expansion on the why of their connection as they spent more time together). There were also a few places where there was more telling of the day to day moments which could be shortened to reduce the likelihood of skimming on those parts.
Overall, I’d be keen to read the next book and will continue keeping an eye out for Sara’s work! She captured some really heartfelt emotional beats in this story, and those moments are what will stick with me the most.
The way she had introduced the other characters to set up the series was also done well - there were just enough hints about future pairings to make me curious for what’s next.
On the romance side, it might just be me, I felt it leaned more towards insta love than a burn. Since that’s how I felt things started here, it meant the romance felt faster and perhaps a little more out of the blue in the beginning given the professional relationship dynamic (though I liked how the expansion on the why of their connection as they spent more time together). There were also a few places where there was more telling of the day to day moments which could be shortened to reduce the likelihood of skimming on those parts.
Overall, I’d be keen to read the next book and will continue keeping an eye out for Sara’s work! She captured some really heartfelt emotional beats in this story, and those moments are what will stick with me the most.
September 4, 2025
This is such a great debut novel! It may seem like a sweet country star romance about “life, laughter, and happily ever after”, but it is so much more!! This is a story grapples with grief, life after loss, fears of death, panic attacks, feelings of unworthiness, and how different loves can shape us!
Miley is a recently divorced legal assistant who dislikes her job, and feels like her life is going no where. The only thing she looks forward it hanging out with her twin sister and her best friends, aka the core four. Until, one day she is ask to sit in on a very prestigious client. Greylan Asher is a rising star in the country music biz, who is haunted by a traumatic past. Greylan is accused of a crime he didn’t commit, in order to keep everything quiet and under-wraps, he in list the help of Miley’s boss. When the two meet sparks ignited!! Can these two get over their past and finally find a love worth keeping?
Things I loved:
-The side characters were just as great as the main characters, I can’t wait for their stories!!
-The deeper dive into grief and how it doesn’t go away.
-The way this book showed how the power of words can heal a heart, even one that seems broken beyond repair!
For people who love
Insta-love
Second Chances
Ride or Die Friendships
Musician romance
Spice
Heartwarming moments
Beautiful poetic writing
Miley is a recently divorced legal assistant who dislikes her job, and feels like her life is going no where. The only thing she looks forward it hanging out with her twin sister and her best friends, aka the core four. Until, one day she is ask to sit in on a very prestigious client. Greylan Asher is a rising star in the country music biz, who is haunted by a traumatic past. Greylan is accused of a crime he didn’t commit, in order to keep everything quiet and under-wraps, he in list the help of Miley’s boss. When the two meet sparks ignited!! Can these two get over their past and finally find a love worth keeping?
Things I loved:
-The side characters were just as great as the main characters, I can’t wait for their stories!!
-The deeper dive into grief and how it doesn’t go away.
-The way this book showed how the power of words can heal a heart, even one that seems broken beyond repair!
For people who love
Insta-love
Second Chances
Ride or Die Friendships
Musician romance
Spice
Heartwarming moments
Beautiful poetic writing
October 23, 2025
Rating⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice🌶️🌶️
Tropes
🧡 Off limits romance
🍂 He’s falls HARD
👜 Duel POV
💛 Grief and trauma rep
🌻 Mental health rep
🍁 Found family
🎤 Musician x paralegal
“I never thought I’d find this kind of happiness. This kind of love. You..you’ve given me everything I never knew I was mising.”
“Miley, I literally couldn’t breathe before I met you. You are everything, my everything, and I will always choose you. Because you are my person, and I cant imagine a life without you in it.”
Omg. Babes. Go add this book to your tbr and then start it IMMEDIATELY. Sara!!! This book is amazing! First of all, the author is an angel and the sweetest ever! I’m so grateful for the opportunity to read your debut novel!! When Sara told me about this book I knew I’d be destroyed…and I was!! The way that these characters pull you in and suck you into the story! I was hooked on page one. These two together are magic!! The chemistry and fire between Greylan and Miley oh babyyyyy🔥He is so head over heels for her and he doesn’t care how long it takes to get his girl! Ugh I just love them!! Greylans development throughout the story was beautiful! What a book😭😭
Spice🌶️🌶️
Tropes
🧡 Off limits romance
🍂 He’s falls HARD
👜 Duel POV
💛 Grief and trauma rep
🌻 Mental health rep
🍁 Found family
🎤 Musician x paralegal
“I never thought I’d find this kind of happiness. This kind of love. You..you’ve given me everything I never knew I was mising.”
“Miley, I literally couldn’t breathe before I met you. You are everything, my everything, and I will always choose you. Because you are my person, and I cant imagine a life without you in it.”
Omg. Babes. Go add this book to your tbr and then start it IMMEDIATELY. Sara!!! This book is amazing! First of all, the author is an angel and the sweetest ever! I’m so grateful for the opportunity to read your debut novel!! When Sara told me about this book I knew I’d be destroyed…and I was!! The way that these characters pull you in and suck you into the story! I was hooked on page one. These two together are magic!! The chemistry and fire between Greylan and Miley oh babyyyyy🔥He is so head over heels for her and he doesn’t care how long it takes to get his girl! Ugh I just love them!! Greylans development throughout the story was beautiful! What a book😭😭
January 2, 2026
Core Four: The One was so sweetly gifted to me by the author @saraburwell.author 🩷 this was a fast paced, sweet romance following legal assistant Miley, in her quest to assist getting big time country music star Greylan Asher’s record cleared for a crime he didn’t commit.
I thought this was a very sweet novel, the characters were fun to follow and the plot was one I haven’t seen before. It was fun to follow the case as they compiled evidence and went about the emotions that went into the court case.
I felt like I connected to Greylan when it came to his mental health struggles, and found his backstory to be quite fascinating as there are some underlying mystery elements to him and what he’s gone through. It was harder to connect to Miley but that could’ve been just the differences in our personalities.
If you’re looking for a sassy FMC who is strong willed, and an MMC who gives country pop star vibes, check this out.
I thought this was a very sweet novel, the characters were fun to follow and the plot was one I haven’t seen before. It was fun to follow the case as they compiled evidence and went about the emotions that went into the court case.
I felt like I connected to Greylan when it came to his mental health struggles, and found his backstory to be quite fascinating as there are some underlying mystery elements to him and what he’s gone through. It was harder to connect to Miley but that could’ve been just the differences in our personalities.
If you’re looking for a sassy FMC who is strong willed, and an MMC who gives country pop star vibes, check this out.
September 22, 2025
Hi Sara thank you for writing such a thought-provoking book. The subjects that run throughout the book are the ones that many of us have suffered or no someone who has. As a sufferer of anxiety and a victim of the subjects you have so sensitively covered, I did find it hard to read and I cried at the feelings the story woke up inside me, I feel that reading your book is like going to see your best friend and tell her everything and she envelopes you in a life changing hug .H and h had such a rollercoaster from start to finish we have been with them from the highs to the very lowest point of there developing relationship. The relationships of the supporting characters are excellent and they also tell their own stories and these are all interlinked. Grief never goes away we all just learn how to cope but you never really learn to cope you were a mask that others expect you to wear after a suitable expected time period.Thank again it was an honour to read it .
October 2, 2025
This was a soul-searching, emotional romance that I really enjoyed! This book covers some pretty deep themes, especially around grief and how it shapes us. And it does it in a way that I think a lot of people will find relatable.
I actually connected with the author of this book on Instagram before I read this. And while we were chatting, Sara shared part of her own story with me. And that made reading chapter 35 -don’t worry, no spoilers!- feel like this really cool and personal moment where I got a peak behind the curtain. It was a unique reading experience that felt like I got to hear the Author’s own voice come through in a special way! (Thanks for being vulnerable, Sara. Sharing our stories is not easy, but it’s a gift to those we share it with!)
I actually connected with the author of this book on Instagram before I read this. And while we were chatting, Sara shared part of her own story with me. And that made reading chapter 35 -don’t worry, no spoilers!- feel like this really cool and personal moment where I got a peak behind the curtain. It was a unique reading experience that felt like I got to hear the Author’s own voice come through in a special way! (Thanks for being vulnerable, Sara. Sharing our stories is not easy, but it’s a gift to those we share it with!)
July 2, 2025
Reading this book felt like catching up with an old friend. The storytelling is warm, natural, and incredibly engaging—it draws you in effortlessly. The writing is clear and well-paced, making it easy to follow without ever feeling simplistic.
What I loved most was how relatable it was. It captures the full spectrum of life’s emotions: the highs and lows that shape us, the moments that make us laugh out loud, the flirtatious sparks, and the quiet sadness that lingers. It’s honest, heartfelt, and human.
This book doesn’t just tell a story—it reflects real life in a way that’s both entertaining and meaningful. A must-read.
What I loved most was how relatable it was. It captures the full spectrum of life’s emotions: the highs and lows that shape us, the moments that make us laugh out loud, the flirtatious sparks, and the quiet sadness that lingers. It’s honest, heartfelt, and human.
This book doesn’t just tell a story—it reflects real life in a way that’s both entertaining and meaningful. A must-read.
July 29, 2025
Had the privilege to be an ARC reader for this. This book stole my heart from the very beginning. I was hooked. This book had me on the edge of my seat, with the fun banter, the love, the laughter and everything in between. I could not for the life of me put it down. I started it around 8am and was done with it by approximately 3pm. Every page makes you want more and more.
If you’re needing a keep you in the edge of your seat rom com. This is the perfect book. The first of four in the series and I am so excited for the next to come out! I hopefully willl be able to be an ARC reader for the next 3.
Kudos to the Author Sara! This book is 100% in my top 5 must reads!!
If you’re needing a keep you in the edge of your seat rom com. This is the perfect book. The first of four in the series and I am so excited for the next to come out! I hopefully willl be able to be an ARC reader for the next 3.
Kudos to the Author Sara! This book is 100% in my top 5 must reads!!
October 7, 2025
“𝑴𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒚, 𝑰 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝑰 𝒎𝒆𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒎𝒚 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
This was such a great debut novel!!
I adored the writing style, It was easy to read and kept me hooked.
I really loved the main characters, and the chemistry between them. As well as the side characters!! I’m not usually a huge fan of the “Celebrity/music star” trope but this one was done soo well and was such a sweet story!!
What to expect—
🩵 Mental health rep
🩵 Country singer MMC
🩵 Healing through grief
🩵 Insta love
Thank you to the author for the gifted book!! 🫶
This was such a great debut novel!!
I adored the writing style, It was easy to read and kept me hooked.
I really loved the main characters, and the chemistry between them. As well as the side characters!! I’m not usually a huge fan of the “Celebrity/music star” trope but this one was done soo well and was such a sweet story!!
What to expect—
🩵 Mental health rep
🩵 Country singer MMC
🩵 Healing through grief
🩵 Insta love
Thank you to the author for the gifted book!! 🫶
June 30, 2025
Wow! Where do I begin! The story of Miley and Greylan is captivating, from start to finish the author keeps you interested, making it extremely difficult to put down! This story touches on everything from love, loss, tragedy, grief, friendship, resilience and justice. I laughed, I cried, I sat on the edge of my seat, palms sweating in anticipation of what’s to come. 5 stars for sure!!!!!
June 30, 2025
I flew through this book in just two days—I couldn’t put it down! The story pulled me in right from the start, and the characters were so well written that it was easy to become completely invested in their journeys. I found myself rooting for them every step of the way. It’s one of those reads that leaves you wanting more - can’t wait for the next installment in the series!
September 30, 2025
Adorable love story!
This book had it all... love, tragedy, suspense, grief! Its clear Sara poured her heart into this book, because I felt it! I can't wait to read more from this author!
This book had it all... love, tragedy, suspense, grief! Its clear Sara poured her heart into this book, because I felt it! I can't wait to read more from this author!
December 28, 2025
Thank you @saraburwell.author for a gifted copy!
𝗧𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲: Core Four: The One
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Sara Burwell
𝗣𝘂𝗯 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: June 13, 2025
🎸 𝙈𝙮 𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 🎸
This is a unique love story between a paralegal and country music singer, full of tension, grief, past trauma, and personal healing journeys. Miley is a paralegal moving forward from a past divorce, and trying to surviving a job she hates. Her job leads her to meet the handsome Greylan Asher, who is a country music singer who ends up in legal trouble. Greylan’s trouble brings him face to face with a grief-filled past, and he isn’t ready to face it.
This secret client that Miley is helping with, leads to more secrets when Greylan wants to get to know her. It would be detrimental to her job, but Miley can’t help but fall for Greylan and their immediate shared connection.
I liked the strong friendships in this story that surrounded both characters. Both had people they can always count on for support and encouragement in difficult times. The friendships brought humor and realness to the story.
Miley and Greylan were two kindred souls, with undeniable sparks between them. I like how straightforward Greylan is with Miley about what he wants. Miley is more broken with relationships from her divorce and Greylan is a rock for her to hold on to.
Miley is also a rock for Greylan with his past trauma coming to haunt him. She meets him where he is at and helps him step into the light. He is encouraged and motivated to do better with Miley around.
If you are a country music fan, this romance is going to be for you! Sweet lyrics are featured throughout the story, and you can imagine what it might be like to date a hunky country music star!
🎸 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
🎵 Paralegal / Country Music Singer
🤎 Secret Romance
🎤 Past Trauma / Grief Healing
🎶 Strong Friendships
𝗧𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲: Core Four: The One
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Sara Burwell
𝗣𝘂𝗯 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: June 13, 2025
🎸 𝙈𝙮 𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 🎸
This is a unique love story between a paralegal and country music singer, full of tension, grief, past trauma, and personal healing journeys. Miley is a paralegal moving forward from a past divorce, and trying to surviving a job she hates. Her job leads her to meet the handsome Greylan Asher, who is a country music singer who ends up in legal trouble. Greylan’s trouble brings him face to face with a grief-filled past, and he isn’t ready to face it.
This secret client that Miley is helping with, leads to more secrets when Greylan wants to get to know her. It would be detrimental to her job, but Miley can’t help but fall for Greylan and their immediate shared connection.
I liked the strong friendships in this story that surrounded both characters. Both had people they can always count on for support and encouragement in difficult times. The friendships brought humor and realness to the story.
Miley and Greylan were two kindred souls, with undeniable sparks between them. I like how straightforward Greylan is with Miley about what he wants. Miley is more broken with relationships from her divorce and Greylan is a rock for her to hold on to.
Miley is also a rock for Greylan with his past trauma coming to haunt him. She meets him where he is at and helps him step into the light. He is encouraged and motivated to do better with Miley around.
If you are a country music fan, this romance is going to be for you! Sweet lyrics are featured throughout the story, and you can imagine what it might be like to date a hunky country music star!
🎸 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
🎵 Paralegal / Country Music Singer
🤎 Secret Romance
🎤 Past Trauma / Grief Healing
🎶 Strong Friendships
November 20, 2025
Core Four: The One by Sara Burwell
Core Four series book 1
Thank you to Sara for entrusting me with a gifted copy!
Interconnected standalone
Dual POV, mental health/therapy rep, he falls first, country star MMC, legal assistant FMC but dreams of being an author, forbidden romance, slow burn (though instant attraction), found family – awesome female friend group, dealing with grief, banter, exchanging emails then texts
Miley is trying to rebuild her life after a divorce and is working as a legal assistant even though she doesn't enjoy it. Greylan finds himself in a legal situation after a run-in with someone from his past. They are thrown together when Greylan seeks the lawyer Miley works for since he is related to his manager. As they spend more time with each other and begin to trust each other with more and more of their pasts, their feelings grow to the point of throwing caution to the wind and giving in to their attraction.
This was a sweet book. Both Miley and Greylan were dealing with a lot and it was so sweet when Miley was helping Greylan with his panic attacks. Miley's group of friends made me smile so much and so did her relationship with her twin. I also found the legal drama interesting and how the past was slowly revealed. There were a few areas of the book that felt a little disconnected and some internal monologue that seemed unnecessary. And there were a few scenes that could have been a little more fleshed out to make sense with the story like when there was a run in with Miley's ex, but the overall story was cute and I really liked the ending with Miley following a dream. I think the books will continue to follow different members of Miley's friend group which is fun!
Core Four series book 1
Thank you to Sara for entrusting me with a gifted copy!
Interconnected standalone
Dual POV, mental health/therapy rep, he falls first, country star MMC, legal assistant FMC but dreams of being an author, forbidden romance, slow burn (though instant attraction), found family – awesome female friend group, dealing with grief, banter, exchanging emails then texts
Miley is trying to rebuild her life after a divorce and is working as a legal assistant even though she doesn't enjoy it. Greylan finds himself in a legal situation after a run-in with someone from his past. They are thrown together when Greylan seeks the lawyer Miley works for since he is related to his manager. As they spend more time with each other and begin to trust each other with more and more of their pasts, their feelings grow to the point of throwing caution to the wind and giving in to their attraction.
This was a sweet book. Both Miley and Greylan were dealing with a lot and it was so sweet when Miley was helping Greylan with his panic attacks. Miley's group of friends made me smile so much and so did her relationship with her twin. I also found the legal drama interesting and how the past was slowly revealed. There were a few areas of the book that felt a little disconnected and some internal monologue that seemed unnecessary. And there were a few scenes that could have been a little more fleshed out to make sense with the story like when there was a run in with Miley's ex, but the overall story was cute and I really liked the ending with Miley following a dream. I think the books will continue to follow different members of Miley's friend group which is fun!
October 3, 2025
One of my favorites parts of being a reader is when I get to read a new author’s debut book, and am immediately in disbelief that it is actually a debut because it is just that good. Core Four: The One by Sara Burwell is one of those books!
I loved this story! It was funny and sweet and romantic and had a perfect level of emotion. I was immediately locked in from page one as Burwell’s writing felt so genuine. It was not trying too hard to be poetic or not trying hard enough and ending up sounding unedited, it was perfect honestly.
Miley and Greylan had such great chemistry, and I loved their banter. The side characters were all likeable and well developed, the story is fast paced and draws you in right away being just suspenseful enough to keep you reading, all without being too heavy.
You can absolutely tell the author poured her heart into this book and these characters! And I cannot wait to see where this series takes us!
**And bonus, this book as short chapters which is my absolute favorite! **
I loved this story! It was funny and sweet and romantic and had a perfect level of emotion. I was immediately locked in from page one as Burwell’s writing felt so genuine. It was not trying too hard to be poetic or not trying hard enough and ending up sounding unedited, it was perfect honestly.
Miley and Greylan had such great chemistry, and I loved their banter. The side characters were all likeable and well developed, the story is fast paced and draws you in right away being just suspenseful enough to keep you reading, all without being too heavy.
You can absolutely tell the author poured her heart into this book and these characters! And I cannot wait to see where this series takes us!
**And bonus, this book as short chapters which is my absolute favorite! **
July 4, 2025
Way to go Sara!
In Core Four: The One, Sara Burwell brings to life a tight-knit group of women whose bonds are filled with loyalty, laughter, and emotional depth. At its heart is Miley, a legal assistant rebuilding her life after trauma. Burwell’s strength lies in her ability to weave raw vulnerability with moments of hope and humor—capturing the messy, beautiful process of healing. The group’s dynamic feels authentic and full of heart, evoking that rare feeling of friendship we all crave in our own lives.
The novel balances heavy emotional themes with light, relatable dialogue and gentle humor, resulting in an engaging and emotionally resonant story. While rooted in romance, the narrative truly shines as a character-driven exploration of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of chosen family. Readers who love emotionally rich, character-led women’s fiction will find themselves connected to Burwell’s core four long after the final page.
In Core Four: The One, Sara Burwell brings to life a tight-knit group of women whose bonds are filled with loyalty, laughter, and emotional depth. At its heart is Miley, a legal assistant rebuilding her life after trauma. Burwell’s strength lies in her ability to weave raw vulnerability with moments of hope and humor—capturing the messy, beautiful process of healing. The group’s dynamic feels authentic and full of heart, evoking that rare feeling of friendship we all crave in our own lives.
The novel balances heavy emotional themes with light, relatable dialogue and gentle humor, resulting in an engaging and emotionally resonant story. While rooted in romance, the narrative truly shines as a character-driven exploration of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of chosen family. Readers who love emotionally rich, character-led women’s fiction will find themselves connected to Burwell’s core four long after the final page.
August 27, 2025
𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚞𝚗𝚍𝚘𝚠𝚗:
Miley is a legal assistant who is helping to get big time country music star Greylan Asher’s name cleared for a crime he didn’t commit.
𝙼𝚢 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎:
I thought this was a solid read for a debut!
I went into this one blind so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’m normally not a celebrity / music star trope fan, but I felt like Greylan’s character focused much more on his back story & his mental health than his actual celeb status, which I enjoyed.
As a big found family lover I was a huge fan of the girl gang! I loved the text massages between them & how supportive they all were.
This story touches on everything from love, loss, tragedy, grief, friendship, resilience and justice. I’m interested to see where the author goes next!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗲𝘁:
Paralegal x Music star
Healing through trauma
Dealing with grief
Girl gang
Miley is a legal assistant who is helping to get big time country music star Greylan Asher’s name cleared for a crime he didn’t commit.
𝙼𝚢 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎:
I thought this was a solid read for a debut!
I went into this one blind so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’m normally not a celebrity / music star trope fan, but I felt like Greylan’s character focused much more on his back story & his mental health than his actual celeb status, which I enjoyed.
As a big found family lover I was a huge fan of the girl gang! I loved the text massages between them & how supportive they all were.
This story touches on everything from love, loss, tragedy, grief, friendship, resilience and justice. I’m interested to see where the author goes next!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗲𝘁:
Paralegal x Music star
Healing through trauma
Dealing with grief
Girl gang
June 29, 2025
This book draws you in from the very first sentence and doesn’t let go. It’s such an easy, feel-good read, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that had me smiling the whole way through. The friendship between this group of girls is everything—fun, loyal, and full of heart. It’s the kind of bond we all hope to find in our own lives.
I couldn’t get enough of Miley and her crew, and now I’m counting down the days until we get to read more about her friends and twin sister. I just know their stories are going to be just as charming and addictive. If you’re looking for a book that lifts your mood and leaves you wanting more, this is it!
I couldn’t get enough of Miley and her crew, and now I’m counting down the days until we get to read more about her friends and twin sister. I just know their stories are going to be just as charming and addictive. If you’re looking for a book that lifts your mood and leaves you wanting more, this is it!
September 15, 2025
This book was so cute! Miley hates her job and hates her boss. She does everything for him and gets no recognition. Untill greylan comes into the picture and changes her life around.. for the good. Greylan has a lot of trauma and heartbreak and he’s just surving and when life hit the fan again, he never expected to fall in love with the legal assistant who’s helping him on his case. I love how they became friends first and lovers after. He was all in from the beginning. I loved her friend group and the Easter eggs for the next book. Super excited for Sara and this series! As her first debut, I am so excited to be apart of this journey!
July 16, 2025
I was so excited to be chosen as an ARC reader for this book. Sara did such a great job at describing characters and bringing the story together. Learning a little about her life after reading, i loved the way she put pieces of her personal life into the book in such a creative way. This book draws you in, keeps you wanting to know what’s next. Without giving anything away, there are heavy parts in this book but the way Sara managed to touch on them and make them feel a little lighter is truly a gift. Congratulations Sara!
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