What do you think?
Rate this book
The Rules We Broke
The rules broke them… but some loves are meant to last.
Ellie Eaton and Brady Jackson were never supposed to fall in love. Their families made sure of that—with rules and grudges that split not just them, but their entire hometown. Still, despite the warnings and the fallout they know is coming, Ellie and Brady forge a forbidden friendship—one that blossoms into a once-in-a-lifetime romance.
But just as they are ready to leave for college and start a life of their own, everything unravels. Illness, deception, and long-buried secrets tear them apart, leaving heartbreak in their wake and silence between them.
Now, ten years later, a near tragedy brings Ellie and Brady back together in the town that once drove them apart. Despite their long separation and the hurt that still lingers, the love between them is impossible to ignore. And this time, they’re not alone—unlikely allies are rooting for their reunion. But not everyone is happy to see them back together.
With old wounds reopened and new truths revealed, they’ll have to Can love rewrite the past? Or will the rules that broke them once… break them again?
USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Peel delivers a poignant tale about the beauty of young love and the hope of second chances.
Previously published as House Divided. Revised with a brand-new epilogue.
Ellie Eaton and Brady Jackson were never supposed to fall in love. Their families made sure of that—with rules and grudges that split not just them, but their entire hometown. Still, despite the warnings and the fallout they know is coming, Ellie and Brady forge a forbidden friendship—one that blossoms into a once-in-a-lifetime romance.
But just as they are ready to leave for college and start a life of their own, everything unravels. Illness, deception, and long-buried secrets tear them apart, leaving heartbreak in their wake and silence between them.
Now, ten years later, a near tragedy brings Ellie and Brady back together in the town that once drove them apart. Despite their long separation and the hurt that still lingers, the love between them is impossible to ignore. And this time, they’re not alone—unlikely allies are rooting for their reunion. But not everyone is happy to see them back together.
With old wounds reopened and new truths revealed, they’ll have to Can love rewrite the past? Or will the rules that broke them once… break them again?
USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Peel delivers a poignant tale about the beauty of young love and the hope of second chances.
Previously published as House Divided. Revised with a brand-new epilogue.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2025
103 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Peel
64 books1,404 followersJennifer Peel is the mother of three amazing kiddos. Wife to her one and only for the past twenty-two years. Lover of late night talks, beach vacations, the mountains, pink bubble gum ice cream, tours of model homes, and southern living. She can frequently be found with her laptop on, fingers typing away, indulging in chocolate milk, and writing out the stories that are constantly swirling through her head.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 8, 2025
I Love This Story!
I first read this book years ago and it was actually my first book by this author. After I finished, I went back and read all books published by author Jennifer Peel. When you read this, you'll see why. I was so excited to read this updated, spruced up version and revisit all the juicy family drama lama the comes with this story. My tummy had crazy butterflies every time Ellie and Brady interacted. I am such a sucker for second chance love stories and this one is so, so good. I'm also a fan of Brady and how confidently and relentlessly he pursued Ellie. She really deserved that. Now I'm utterly content and happy. I love this story.
I first read this book years ago and it was actually my first book by this author. After I finished, I went back and read all books published by author Jennifer Peel. When you read this, you'll see why. I was so excited to read this updated, spruced up version and revisit all the juicy family drama lama the comes with this story. My tummy had crazy butterflies every time Ellie and Brady interacted. I am such a sucker for second chance love stories and this one is so, so good. I'm also a fan of Brady and how confidently and relentlessly he pursued Ellie. She really deserved that. Now I'm utterly content and happy. I love this story.
August 20, 2025
Oh my heart!!! Ellie Eaton and Brady Jackson are meant for each other. Despite all of the rules in their way, family, community, college, football teams, and much more! Even though they find themselves separated for several years, their hearts (and some family members) help them find their second chance. It's heartbreakingly beautiful! I cried! I laughed! I loved so many of the secondary characters and their goodness, and change of heart and pure love for Ellie and Brady.
There's definitely sorrow mixed in with the happiness and joy! I loved the underlying hope that just kept building as the story progressed. And it wasn't just a quick fix, second chance story. There were struggles and more growth that continued to come about, and lots of healing.
I love how Jennifer Peel writes characters! They're real and raw. They struggle. They have to work through the hard and sometimes ugly. And they come out so much stronger and happier once they do. And the reader gets to enjoy the beautifully gritty ride, and come out smiling and cheering on these characters!!! This author has a lifelong fan in me!!!
Content: Clean. A secondary character has some heart problems and requires surgery. Some kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
There's definitely sorrow mixed in with the happiness and joy! I loved the underlying hope that just kept building as the story progressed. And it wasn't just a quick fix, second chance story. There were struggles and more growth that continued to come about, and lots of healing.
I love how Jennifer Peel writes characters! They're real and raw. They struggle. They have to work through the hard and sometimes ugly. And they come out so much stronger and happier once they do. And the reader gets to enjoy the beautifully gritty ride, and come out smiling and cheering on these characters!!! This author has a lifelong fan in me!!!
Content: Clean. A secondary character has some heart problems and requires surgery. Some kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
August 19, 2025
I love second-chance romances and no one does them quite like Jennifer Peel. I stayed up way too late reading this book, and I don’t regret a single lost minute of sleep. Ellie and Brady's story pulled me in from the very first page and broke my heart—in the best way.
Ellie Eaton and Brady Jackson are meant for each other, but their families’ grudges and rules make every moment bittersweet. I knew things would come crashing down sooner or later, and when their world unraveled, my heart hurt for both of them.
Ten years later, Ellie returns to Kaysville when her Aunt Lu faces a medical emergency. Being a small town, there's no way for her to avoid running into Brady or his family. When they saw each other after all those years, all their history, the pain, and the love they never got over were still there. There's tension but also hope, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages to see if they’d finally fight for what they should have had all along.
This book had me feeling all the emotions! I was thrilled that Ellie and Brady had people in their corner this time around to combat those who still clung to old views/traditions. I loved that Brady fought for Ellie. I loved Aunt Lu and how she treated Ellie like her own. And yes, southern women like Aunt Lu still exist, especially in small towns. On the other hand, there was a particular character I wanted to "give a good talking-to", as my mama would say.
By the time I got to the end, I was happy and a little teary, and not quite ready to say goodbye to these characters. If you’re like me and love emotional, heartfelt second-chance romances that make you cry, smile, and cheer all in the same chapter, The Rules We Broke delivers.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions in this review are my own.
Ellie Eaton and Brady Jackson are meant for each other, but their families’ grudges and rules make every moment bittersweet. I knew things would come crashing down sooner or later, and when their world unraveled, my heart hurt for both of them.
Ten years later, Ellie returns to Kaysville when her Aunt Lu faces a medical emergency. Being a small town, there's no way for her to avoid running into Brady or his family. When they saw each other after all those years, all their history, the pain, and the love they never got over were still there. There's tension but also hope, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages to see if they’d finally fight for what they should have had all along.
This book had me feeling all the emotions! I was thrilled that Ellie and Brady had people in their corner this time around to combat those who still clung to old views/traditions. I loved that Brady fought for Ellie. I loved Aunt Lu and how she treated Ellie like her own. And yes, southern women like Aunt Lu still exist, especially in small towns. On the other hand, there was a particular character I wanted to "give a good talking-to", as my mama would say.
By the time I got to the end, I was happy and a little teary, and not quite ready to say goodbye to these characters. If you’re like me and love emotional, heartfelt second-chance romances that make you cry, smile, and cheer all in the same chapter, The Rules We Broke delivers.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions in this review are my own.
September 7, 2025
“I love us enough for the both of us.”
There’s nothing sweeter than a Jennifer Peel second chance romance and this one between former football star and country boy, Brady, and the sweet, children’s book author, Ella (aka Ellie or Elle), is simply scrumptious.
With families who are bitter enemies and divide the town, as well as opposing college loyalties, this duo has everything stacked against them, yet they are drawn to one another like moths to a flame. Their teenage romance was absolutely forbidden and went up in flames, yet 10 years later, that love is still blazing. The swoon is off the charts with every event and situation they find themselves in.
What I loved:
💘A love that transcends time and everything else
💘Decorating for the holidays, as well as celebrating them
💘Making peace with the past and with family
💘The most precocious and darling niece
💘Family bonds and ties, both complicated and endearing
💘Swoony kisses-only, with some innuendo, that fogs up the windows
💘Deep Southern setting and all the manners one could want
Content: mild+ romance; complicated family dynamics
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
There’s nothing sweeter than a Jennifer Peel second chance romance and this one between former football star and country boy, Brady, and the sweet, children’s book author, Ella (aka Ellie or Elle), is simply scrumptious.
With families who are bitter enemies and divide the town, as well as opposing college loyalties, this duo has everything stacked against them, yet they are drawn to one another like moths to a flame. Their teenage romance was absolutely forbidden and went up in flames, yet 10 years later, that love is still blazing. The swoon is off the charts with every event and situation they find themselves in.
What I loved:
💘A love that transcends time and everything else
💘Decorating for the holidays, as well as celebrating them
💘Making peace with the past and with family
💘The most precocious and darling niece
💘Family bonds and ties, both complicated and endearing
💘Swoony kisses-only, with some innuendo, that fogs up the windows
💘Deep Southern setting and all the manners one could want
Content: mild+ romance; complicated family dynamics
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
August 9, 2025
Sweet, emotional, funny and toe-curling!
This book gave me all the feels and was such a sweet and emotional love story. I really related to Ellie and could empathize with her situation. The author did such a wonderful job telling the story from her first person perspective, which is one of my favorites! And wow, Brady was one heck of a hero- you can’t help but fall for how charming and kind he is.
Growing up in Alabama, I know how real the division is between the football fans, and loved how that played a role in this story. There was such a sweet love story in this book, but I honestly loved how so many side characters played a role in adding depth and detail to it. I adored Caroline, and couldn’t get enough of her (here’s to hoping she got a puppy, lol).
This is another fantastic book by the talented Jennifer Peel, and definitely one I’ll be rereading again and again!
This book gave me all the feels and was such a sweet and emotional love story. I really related to Ellie and could empathize with her situation. The author did such a wonderful job telling the story from her first person perspective, which is one of my favorites! And wow, Brady was one heck of a hero- you can’t help but fall for how charming and kind he is.
Growing up in Alabama, I know how real the division is between the football fans, and loved how that played a role in this story. There was such a sweet love story in this book, but I honestly loved how so many side characters played a role in adding depth and detail to it. I adored Caroline, and couldn’t get enough of her (here’s to hoping she got a puppy, lol).
This is another fantastic book by the talented Jennifer Peel, and definitely one I’ll be rereading again and again!
January 12, 2026
Loved this book. I don’t think I’ve ever had a book that so thoroughly described where I came from (minus the generational wealth).
August 7, 2025
Beautiful Happily Ever After
What a beautiful second chance love story that had me captivated from the first page! I have very few books that I will give up sleep for but this was one of them. It was so heartbreaking and wonderful and true love absolutely won over hate! Five stars all the way!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a beautiful second chance love story that had me captivated from the first page! I have very few books that I will give up sleep for but this was one of them. It was so heartbreaking and wonderful and true love absolutely won over hate! Five stars all the way!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 11, 2025
This is one of my favorite romances by Jennifer Peel, reading it again made me feel again, sadness for the dramatic moments and happiness for the reencounter. Her aunt’s bittersweet story broke my heart again but it comforted me that she had good moments.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2025
May this kind of love never find me.
December 3, 2025
I love a good second-chance, childhood boyfriend romance and this wasn’t entirely an exception, though i, unfortunately, do have several critiques. One being, the pacing was not only inconsistent but the overall storyline was overly repetitive and mundane. It felt like i was reading the same argument every chapter, which yes that argument was one that needed reiterating, but not EVERY five seconds, in my humble opinion. I also am not a fan of breakups in books that are caused by a misunderstanding that could be cleared up in all of five minutes. That being said, i did like that this misunderstanding had a tiny bit more complexity then just “you cheated on me.” which, obviously, did not happen. The lack of communication was also incredibly frustrating, like why did Brady just believe his mom and literally never ask Ellie?
Besides that, this book was not a hit for me due to my general dislike for both the main characters. Ellie was whiny and i personally don’t understand how after ten years she feels she exact same. (I have never been in a long term relationship so maybe that’s on me.) and i found Brady to be immensely unlikable. He was very idiotic at times, and also i did not like the forceful quality of his actions. Yes, he was committed or pining or whatever, but if a man tried to kiss me after we broke up without my consent? Slapped, immediately slapped. I found that extremely off putting and overall made my dislike for him skyrocket.
I am one of the only few negative reviews though, so maybe i am tripping!! But this is my opinion.
Besides that, this book was not a hit for me due to my general dislike for both the main characters. Ellie was whiny and i personally don’t understand how after ten years she feels she exact same. (I have never been in a long term relationship so maybe that’s on me.) and i found Brady to be immensely unlikable. He was very idiotic at times, and also i did not like the forceful quality of his actions. Yes, he was committed or pining or whatever, but if a man tried to kiss me after we broke up without my consent? Slapped, immediately slapped. I found that extremely off putting and overall made my dislike for him skyrocket.
I am one of the only few negative reviews though, so maybe i am tripping!! But this is my opinion.
October 31, 2025
I can always count on Jennifer Peel to pull me out of a reading rut, and The Rules We Broke was no exception.
Right from the start, we get a glimpse of the heartbreak that tore Elle and Brady apart ten years ago. When Elle is forced to return to her hometown, she’s suddenly face-to-face with the man she never truly got over—and the spark between them is undeniable. But with complicated family “rules” and a small town set on keeping them apart, love is anything but simple.
I was completely swept up in this story. Even though second-chance romance usually isn’t my favorite trope, Jennifer Peel always makes it work—I never even hesitate to pick hers up because I know it’ll be worth it. I adored Aunt Lu’s bold personality, Benjamin and his family’s warmth toward Elle, and the cozy December setting that gave the story the perfect touch of winter charm without being overly Christmas-y.
Right from the start, we get a glimpse of the heartbreak that tore Elle and Brady apart ten years ago. When Elle is forced to return to her hometown, she’s suddenly face-to-face with the man she never truly got over—and the spark between them is undeniable. But with complicated family “rules” and a small town set on keeping them apart, love is anything but simple.
I was completely swept up in this story. Even though second-chance romance usually isn’t my favorite trope, Jennifer Peel always makes it work—I never even hesitate to pick hers up because I know it’ll be worth it. I adored Aunt Lu’s bold personality, Benjamin and his family’s warmth toward Elle, and the cozy December setting that gave the story the perfect touch of winter charm without being overly Christmas-y.
September 30, 2025
So many tears! This story was a bit hard to read. My heart just ached for Ellie and Brady, over and over. Thank goodness for Caroline. She brought so much sunshine and love. It is a beautiful story, thankfully with a happy ending.
January 13, 2026
4.75⭐️
August 12, 2025
Love this Love Story
Having met my husband at a young age, this story is special to me. I definitely did not go through what Ellie & Brady go through, but true love is true love no matter when you fall or what your differences are! Thank you for the epilogue!
Having met my husband at a young age, this story is special to me. I definitely did not go through what Ellie & Brady go through, but true love is true love no matter when you fall or what your differences are! Thank you for the epilogue!
August 11, 2025
Couldn't put it down
From the beginning, I knew that I wouldn't want to stop reading this book. Loved the progression of the story and the resolution in the end.
From the beginning, I knew that I wouldn't want to stop reading this book. Loved the progression of the story and the resolution in the end.
August 8, 2025
Loved this sweeter than southern sweet tea second chance love story. A forbidden romance that rocked a football loving small town.
This in another can’t put it down, lose hours of sleep, 5 star hit by Jennifer Peel.
This in another can’t put it down, lose hours of sleep, 5 star hit by Jennifer Peel.
August 8, 2025
ALL THE FEELS!!!!
Ellie Eaton and Brady Jackson were never meant to fall in love—family grudges and small-town rules made sure of that. But despite it all, their forbidden friendship grew into first love. But just as they were ready to leave for college and begin a future together, illness, deception, and buried secrets tear them apart.
Ten years later, a near tragedy brings Elle back to the town that once drove her away from the only man she has loved, the same man who broke her heart. As old wounds resurface and hidden truths come to light, Ellie and Brady must decide if they are willing to break all the rules again and fight for the future they once dreamed of together.
What you'll love:
second chance at first love
single pov
star-crossed lovers
Southern charm
soooo much emotion!
he falls first...again
Aunt Lu
small town
ALL THE KISSES!!
Brady's house
PERFECT epilogue
OH MY HEART. Jennifer just gets second chance romances. You know, the kind that tear you apart in the best possible way and then slowly stitch you back together with every page. I completely devoured Brady and Ellie’s story in one sitting and couldn’t put the book down until I had that HEA!!
And can we talk about that prologue? Getting to see their young love story from the beginning made me so emotionally invested in their story! Knowing where they started made their reunion ten years later hit so much harder. There’s pain, healing, and so much longing (especially from Brady at first...) And have I mentioned the chemistry yet? It was off the charts and those kisses had me swooning into next week.
I adored the holiday vibes, the Southern charm, the meddling but endearing side characters (minus Brady’s villain mom), and every little moment that brought Brady and Ellie closer again. This one is full of heart, tension, and second-chance magic like only Jennifer can deliver.
Easily one of my favorites from this author! If you love second chance at first love, emotional reunions, and swoony kisses, then you need this book in your life!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Ellie Eaton and Brady Jackson were never meant to fall in love—family grudges and small-town rules made sure of that. But despite it all, their forbidden friendship grew into first love. But just as they were ready to leave for college and begin a future together, illness, deception, and buried secrets tear them apart.
Ten years later, a near tragedy brings Elle back to the town that once drove her away from the only man she has loved, the same man who broke her heart. As old wounds resurface and hidden truths come to light, Ellie and Brady must decide if they are willing to break all the rules again and fight for the future they once dreamed of together.
What you'll love:
second chance at first love
single pov
star-crossed lovers
Southern charm
soooo much emotion!
he falls first...again
Aunt Lu
small town
ALL THE KISSES!!
Brady's house
PERFECT epilogue
OH MY HEART. Jennifer just gets second chance romances. You know, the kind that tear you apart in the best possible way and then slowly stitch you back together with every page. I completely devoured Brady and Ellie’s story in one sitting and couldn’t put the book down until I had that HEA!!
And can we talk about that prologue? Getting to see their young love story from the beginning made me so emotionally invested in their story! Knowing where they started made their reunion ten years later hit so much harder. There’s pain, healing, and so much longing (especially from Brady at first...) And have I mentioned the chemistry yet? It was off the charts and those kisses had me swooning into next week.
I adored the holiday vibes, the Southern charm, the meddling but endearing side characters (minus Brady’s villain mom), and every little moment that brought Brady and Ellie closer again. This one is full of heart, tension, and second-chance magic like only Jennifer can deliver.
Easily one of my favorites from this author! If you love second chance at first love, emotional reunions, and swoony kisses, then you need this book in your life!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
August 7, 2025
No one does second chance romance quite like Jennifer Peel- seriously someone get her a crown because she is the queen of this trope and I am HERE for it!
The Rules We Broke was SO good! I was instantly hooked from the moment I started reading this book and I sacrificed a couple of precious hours of sleep that I have no regrets about, I just couldn't put it down; Brady and Ellie were fire. I LOVED the forbidden romance, star-crossed lovers vibes. The Southern charm oozed from this one and the chemistry was poppin'. Seriously, so much delicious chemistry between Brady and Ellie. The backstory for both them and the root of their forbidden romance with the Jacksons and Aunt Lu just had me feeling for these characters so much. I wanted to hug them all and take the past pain away. I love how Brady fights for Ellie and honestly, I am usually a big fan of dual POV, but I didn’t miss Brady’s perspective in this one. Peel did such a good job of revealing him through Ellie’s POV, I could feel his love and desire coming through and it made Ellie even more relatable and realistic to me.
This was a five star read for me. I just enjoyed getting sucked into this small-town, southern vibes, second chance romance and that ending left me smiling. I definitely recommend this book.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Rules We Broke was SO good! I was instantly hooked from the moment I started reading this book and I sacrificed a couple of precious hours of sleep that I have no regrets about, I just couldn't put it down; Brady and Ellie were fire. I LOVED the forbidden romance, star-crossed lovers vibes. The Southern charm oozed from this one and the chemistry was poppin'. Seriously, so much delicious chemistry between Brady and Ellie. The backstory for both them and the root of their forbidden romance with the Jacksons and Aunt Lu just had me feeling for these characters so much. I wanted to hug them all and take the past pain away. I love how Brady fights for Ellie and honestly, I am usually a big fan of dual POV, but I didn’t miss Brady’s perspective in this one. Peel did such a good job of revealing him through Ellie’s POV, I could feel his love and desire coming through and it made Ellie even more relatable and realistic to me.
This was a five star read for me. I just enjoyed getting sucked into this small-town, southern vibes, second chance romance and that ending left me smiling. I definitely recommend this book.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 20, 2025
I really liked this small town Montagues vs Capulets style romance (without the double suicide). Was some of it ridiculous, yes, but I still liked it.
Ellie and Brady's families hate each other (only one of them has a good reason) and they are told their whole lives to stay away from each other. But Brady is kind and sweet to Ellie, they secretly become friends & then more. Falling in love as teens, but finally outing ther relationship to their families does not go as expected, Brady's mother will do anything to break them up and she eventually succeeds. They both leave for college but Ellie never returns, that is until her Aunt (surrogate mother) has a heart attack & ends up in the hospital. The are forced together by her Aunt who found out a few things that happened when they were in HS and is trying to right the wrongs and give them a second chance. They realize they are both still in love with each other, but can their newly rekindled relationship survive Brady's family and their secrets.
MF - Clean Romance - on page death of a parent
Ellie and Brady's families hate each other (only one of them has a good reason) and they are told their whole lives to stay away from each other. But Brady is kind and sweet to Ellie, they secretly become friends & then more. Falling in love as teens, but finally outing ther relationship to their families does not go as expected, Brady's mother will do anything to break them up and she eventually succeeds. They both leave for college but Ellie never returns, that is until her Aunt (surrogate mother) has a heart attack & ends up in the hospital. The are forced together by her Aunt who found out a few things that happened when they were in HS and is trying to right the wrongs and give them a second chance. They realize they are both still in love with each other, but can their newly rekindled relationship survive Brady's family and their secrets.
MF - Clean Romance - on page death of a parent
January 24, 2026
Very cute clean, second chance romance. Their relationship was forbidden because the families hate each other. They started a secret relationship as teenagers. Young love was so sweet. The MMC broke up with the FMC their senior year of high school because his father was diagnosed with cancer and he wanted to help ease his father’s distress. There was some misunderstandings and they didn’t see each other for 10 years. They reunited a bit too fast but they both still loved each other. The only thing that I found overdone was how the FMC viewed everyone in their town and their reaction to their relationship. We are lead to believe everyone is invested and not supported of their relationship. In reality why would everyone even care, it was so dramatic.
October 11, 2025
The Rules We Broke
I first read this under another name. House Divided. Two youngsters who come from two opposing families grew up each family on different teams. Everyone has their side who is the best. It started with his father and her aunt dating. He ends up marrying her best friend. The angst is real. It was pretty easy to not have feelings for the other family. But when two young people tempt fate things going wrong. Now ten years later she is back in town. Their past courtship is no longer available. What happens next is the rest of the story.
I first read this under another name. House Divided. Two youngsters who come from two opposing families grew up each family on different teams. Everyone has their side who is the best. It started with his father and her aunt dating. He ends up marrying her best friend. The angst is real. It was pretty easy to not have feelings for the other family. But when two young people tempt fate things going wrong. Now ten years later she is back in town. Their past courtship is no longer available. What happens next is the rest of the story.
November 9, 2025
What the actual heck did I just read and why does it have almost 5 stars?
I used to like this author. She lost me with the age gap romances and men dating younger girls that looked like their ex wives. However, with this one, I wanted to give it a chance! It seemed like her old style.
It dragged on a bit with the characters back and forth (pretty sure I flipped thru 50 pages of them saying “I love you” Ok.
Then - spoilers - their family feud and proposal and the wicked mother in law leads the dad to die? Are you actually kidding me?! DNF.
I used to like this author. She lost me with the age gap romances and men dating younger girls that looked like their ex wives. However, with this one, I wanted to give it a chance! It seemed like her old style.
It dragged on a bit with the characters back and forth (pretty sure I flipped thru 50 pages of them saying “I love you” Ok.
Then - spoilers - their family feud and proposal and the wicked mother in law leads the dad to die? Are you actually kidding me?! DNF.
January 15, 2026
Cute story. Sort of a Romeo and Juliet vibe.
Complaint: As one who is intimately involved in the Auburn/Alabama rivalry, house divided, etc, this book was way over the top in places. Made it hard for me to stay in the story because I just kept thinking, it’s not really like this. Though it is an interesting backdrop for a novel.
Also, the tension between the 2 MC resolved so quickly that it left me wanting a bit more. And then there was the way that MMC was a bit pushy with physical affection at the beginning. Didn’t love it.
Complaint: As one who is intimately involved in the Auburn/Alabama rivalry, house divided, etc, this book was way over the top in places. Made it hard for me to stay in the story because I just kept thinking, it’s not really like this. Though it is an interesting backdrop for a novel.
Also, the tension between the 2 MC resolved so quickly that it left me wanting a bit more. And then there was the way that MMC was a bit pushy with physical affection at the beginning. Didn’t love it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2025
Beautiful yet heartbreaking story.
Such a beautiful story of how hurt can destroy many years of happiness in families.
So enjoyed this story of how Elle finally made her dream come true and live wins out of so heartbreaking past mistakes. So many lost years on both families parts. If honesty had prevailed years of hurt could have been eliminated. Great characters and wonderful story line.
Such a beautiful story of how hurt can destroy many years of happiness in families.
So enjoyed this story of how Elle finally made her dream come true and live wins out of so heartbreaking past mistakes. So many lost years on both families parts. If honesty had prevailed years of hurt could have been eliminated. Great characters and wonderful story line.
September 11, 2025
Love the update!
I always enjoy Jennifer Peel's books, but this was one of my least favorites of her early stories. I find the soap opera flavor amusing but it had some knock-you-out-of-the-story level issues that have now been smoothed out. As you can see, the improvements have raised my rating to 4 very-good-&-will-probably-be-a-reread-now stars, lol
*Romance level: passionate kisses, but nothing graphic
I always enjoy Jennifer Peel's books, but this was one of my least favorites of her early stories. I find the soap opera flavor amusing but it had some knock-you-out-of-the-story level issues that have now been smoothed out. As you can see, the improvements have raised my rating to 4 very-good-&-will-probably-be-a-reread-now stars, lol
*Romance level: passionate kisses, but nothing graphic
September 27, 2025
Brady & Ella Lu
Sweet! Sweet! And soooo sweet! I hate that Brady and Ellie list ten years...all because of his mother. The morals to their story are simply beautiful: 1. Lies only breed evil and. 2. Love is the only answer to hate. It's truly a sad thing when a supposed God-fearing, church-attending woman hates with as much vehemence as Elizabeth does. I have to wonder, though, why hadn't Brady tried to contact Ellie sooner?
Sweet! Sweet! And soooo sweet! I hate that Brady and Ellie list ten years...all because of his mother. The morals to their story are simply beautiful: 1. Lies only breed evil and. 2. Love is the only answer to hate. It's truly a sad thing when a supposed God-fearing, church-attending woman hates with as much vehemence as Elizabeth does. I have to wonder, though, why hadn't Brady tried to contact Ellie sooner?
September 17, 2025
Kisses only
I thought this book seemed familiar but was thinking maybe some of the characters were mentioned in a different book. Turns out this is a re edit of House Divided which I read 5 years ago. It is pretty repetitive with Ella wondering if they can work and Brady not taking no for and answer and trucking along saying they’re going to get married.
I thought this book seemed familiar but was thinking maybe some of the characters were mentioned in a different book. Turns out this is a re edit of House Divided which I read 5 years ago. It is pretty repetitive with Ella wondering if they can work and Brady not taking no for and answer and trucking along saying they’re going to get married.
February 6, 2026
I loved this one! I enjoy a good second chance romance, and this one didn’t disappoint. “I love you enough for the both of us.” ❤️❤️ Ellie and Brody had to overcome a lot to be together, and I loved the story that Jennifer Peel wrote for them. Lots of heartache and misunderstandings, and lies from the past. But also hope and people cheering them on. So good! This is a clean closes-door book.
August 20, 2025
I could not put this book down! Jennifer Peel writes the best characters and this take on Romeo and Juliet was no different. This book has everything…young love, heartbreak, redemption, mystery, second chances, fueds, hot kisses and a seriously cute kiddo!
August 28, 2025
4.4 ⭐️ stars
This book is a closed door romance book(no explicit content )
I overall found this book interesting in terms of plot and emotional.
This book is an overall decent read ; I don’t have major icks or complaints with how the book ended.
This book is a closed door romance book(no explicit content )
I overall found this book interesting in terms of plot and emotional.
This book is an overall decent read ; I don’t have major icks or complaints with how the book ended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews