Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine

by Audrey Colman

"Free. Forgiven. Filled."

Love isn’t a country song… Is it?

Raegan Carter feels like she’s been tossed into one of her favorite country songs. From right after senior year, to the tailgate of his truck, to giving more than her heart with the help of a mason jar… Her life matches the lyrics. But forever ends abruptly when her boyfriend signs a contract to play Minor League baseball in Atlanta.
At home in Clear Creek, Raegan lives her life as a single mom and café owner, wondering if she’ll ever see Austin again. Wondering if God has more for her, if He’ll forgive her. Trying to figure out how to live out the motto of free, forgiven, and filled that Ms. Rosa taught her.
On the ball field Austin Thomas is focused, driven, and strategic. But off the field… doubt and questions cloud his vision.
Life changed once his parents' marriage ended; the subsequent move made his dream of baseball seem almost out of reach. But a Rae of Sunshine and his new baseball Coach pushed away the clouds. Now that he’s living his dream has it cost him the two greatest relationships he’s ever had? Old friends pop back into his life, and new teammates encourage him to pursue God. Caught in a tug-of-war can Austin find his way back to the sunshine?

Will their memories forever taste like watermelon moonshine, or is there something sweeter to come?

Genres: Christian Fiction

351 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 3, 2025

About the author

Audrey is an avid reader and homeschool mom living in SC. Her love for a good story prompted her to write her first story in 2024. Her desire is to uplift hearts and glorify God with clean, faith-filled romance.

Reviews

[Cindy aka "The Book Fairy" · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely story overall:) So many realistic enough aspects for a young couple and the reactions/thoughts and feelings they expressed....I admired the wise and loving adults in Rae's life as they supported her during this unexpected pregnancy, the main characters as they sought to live for the Lord in all their ways despite feeling guilty over being intimate. I though they were rather hard on themselves for when God forgives us it's gone into the sea of forgetfulness as he sais. They kept worrying if worthy enough but did get back with their close relationship with the Lord for pleasing reconciliation :) Even with the natural consequences of pregnancy as a definite possibility; they found themselves at a distance from even one another literally afterwards....They were treated with absolute love and support from family members regardless which I admired. It wasn't as if they had been drunk drivers and killed anyone which would have been horrible to deal with forever more!...It was such a powerful story overall with many Christian elements that would be encouraging to young adults especially. I truly liked this and am glad to help support such authors who write these types.

I can certainly recommend this for anyone really with the spiritual and faith elements woven marvelously throughout :)

[Reese Songbird · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, I’m not the target audience for this book since I’m not a contemporary reader, but if I was probably would’ve really enjoyed this. I still did, it was cute and sweet, just not my style. Though if you love cute Christian contemporary romance with themes of redemption, forgiveness, grace, and love, then this is a book for you! It shows the reality of messy life and the mistakes we can sometimes make, but while also showing how we don’t have to let those mistakes keep us stuck and how to move on and experience the fullness of God’s grace. Not to stay in the sin but to repent and allow the trial of our mistakes to grow us in our relationship with Christ.
It was a good book with good lessons and themes.

Content:
Underage drinking (shown as bad), make outs that led to more but off page (shown as bad), mentions and talk about sex and how to navigate it’s role in our lives (saying that it’s good, but in marriage and made for marriage)

[Audrey Colman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can you get a book hangover from your own book? Based on how I’m feeling after my final read through… I do believe you can.

I never intended to write a book, but here we are! I hope that it touches your heart, and somehow you come to know and understand God better after having read this book!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll start with I am not the target audience being as this book, it is very much a young adult book with the characters being seniors at school (in the flashbacks) and young adults in the present, but I love reading these books so I know whether or not it something suitable for my teens. In saying this I still really loved it. If you don't come away from this read saying your free, forgiven and filled have your really read it? These are the words that all of us need to hear (on repeat if your anything like me). I'm not one for spoilers but this book has so many fabulous healthy relationships (some that moved me to tears) in it I pray that my children have this in their lives going forward. I'm very grateful for the chance to read this story as an ARC. What a blessing it is to have strong Christian fiction that covers topics that many author won't address.

[Tayler Marie Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine is a gripping emotional roller-coaster thaexplains God's grace and forgiveness. This is a second-chance romance that readers won't forget! I absolutely love this story and will reread it again and again!

[Rachel Gruber · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can you put into words a book has has changed your life ? Or that you will try to get someone else to read it and change their life too . This book is so good Rae and and Austin come from Texas or a”
Cabbage patch town as Austin nick names it the book. They both go to church Austin is a baseball player and falls for Rae or his “Rae of sunshine “ and they fall fast and hard . I enjoy following their love story until he has to leave for his baseball career in a town away and they made a mistake and he leaves Rae and leaves with their relationship and a bunch of questions .
They also question God and their faith during that time . I won’t ruin anything but you must read this book . This is a good book which mentions God and is a clean book. I’ve read a lot of books and they were cute but this book has depth to it (it’s cute too) but I appreciate the writing and how much God means in the book.
Trigger warnings
It mentions teen drinking briefly but not getting drunk
Out of marriage s&x but in positive biblical terms
Pregnancy .
Iam hoping there is a sequel to this book . Thank you
So much to Audrey for having me on the arc street team .
Free , forgiven and filled ❤️❤️

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful debut by Audrey Colman! There were a lot of things I loved about this story. The small town vibes made me feel cozy, and I loved how there was an instant attraction between our MCs Raegan and Austin. I love a good baseball romance, and this had plenty of that as well. The dual timelines gave a clear picture of their relationship, which was helpful in me cheering and hoping for their reunion. Both Raegan and Austin struggled with guilt and shame for their sins, and their redemption arcs through Christ is one I think a lot of people will find relatable. If you are a fan of faith-filled second chance romances and the single parent trope, I think you should pick this one up.

[Carissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I never thought a Lainey Wilson would inspired a book, but that's what happened with Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine by Audrey Colman. Raegan Carter the heroine never thought her life would mirror a country song until it does. Raegan and her boyfriend Austin make a choice just before he leaves for baseball that changes both their lives as well as their walk with God. While this book is a second chance romance it is first and foremost a story of God's love, Grace and Redemption.

And even though the book has teen and young adult main characters this book is a story for everyone. I love that the author tackled a tough subject that rather or not parents and adults want to believe teens do struggle with, and my friends and I could have used a book like this when we were teens. I know I could have a used a Mrs. Rosa. This one also reminds all of us that we've all messed up a time or two and God's forgiveness and Grace will cover us if we ask for forgiveness. Our past doesn't define us God's love does. Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine wasn't an easy read but it is worth the read.


I received a copy of this book from the author as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was instant attraction when they met senior year of high school. Reagan and Austin begin a whirlwind romance. Along the way he becomes saved and works toward a closer relationship with God. The two set very strict boundaries, but find themselves crossing the line the last night before Austen starts his baseball career. The two must field the aftermath of their choices. Can they find their way back to each other and restore their relationship with God?

What I loved:
⚾️ The theme of God’s redeeming love
⚾️The family dynamics and open dialogue
⚾️The small town vibes
⚾️All the baking-read with a snack handy
⚾️Supportive friends and community
⚾️Vulnerable and realistic characters
⚾️The flirting
⚾️Closed door and viewed through a biblical lens
⚾️Dual point of view and dual timeline

This is hands down one of my favorite books this year. I felt every emotion possible. I was gutted and then put back together. This is a beautiful story of redemption and clinging to God even when His presence isn’t felt as close as it used to be.

[Ashanti · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the privilege of serving on the ARC team for Audrey Colman’s debut novel Taste Like Watermelon Moonshine. At first, I found it a little challenging to dive into this book, mainly because I had just finished a Romantasy and wasn’t ready for the stark shift into a more realistic, emotionally charged story. However, once I settled into the narrative, I was drawn into the depth and honesty Colman brings to her storytelling.

This novel courageously explores themes relevant to young adults and young Christians, including the challenges of faith, shame, relationships, and identity. Readers will find representation of single motherhood, Biblical perspectives on sex, and pro-life values. Some of the characters’ points of view were harder for me to connect with personally, as I am in my 30s and a mother, but the story still provoked reflection on my own early years dating my husband and reminded me of God’s hand in that season of life.

What stands out most in this story is its consistent thread of redemption. No matter the situation—whether it be teen pregnancy, betrayal, or loss—Colman reminds the reader that God’s grace is always present and always greater. The inclusion of scripture and positive mentors provides encouragement and a strong foundation of faith throughout the book.

For readers who value clean, faith-based fiction, this book is an excellent choice. The spice level is low and closed-door. There is no foul language, and the content is rooted in Christian values. Trigger warnings include: teen pregnancy, cancer, and cheating. While the topics are challenging, the message is ultimately one of hope, healing, and God’s redemptive power.

[Summer Powers]

I LOVED THIS BOOK! It was so good!! Thank you so much Audrey for letting me be on the ARC team for ‘Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine’! I loved it!!

~The character growth in this book was amazing! I loved watching them learn and grow and find God. Austin and Raegan were the best. I loved them! Normally I don’t like when the MC’s split up but this was perfect. I loved Baby Bean! She was so cute!! I loved watching her learn to talk and grow! Coach and Ms. Rosa were some of my favorites and I loved how they helped Austin and Raegan in their walk with the Lord! This book was just so good I had to force myself to sleep every night and had my kindle with me every chance I had to read this book! 💞⚾️🍪🍉🍹✝️

~Rating: 5⭐️

~Heat: 3/5🔥

~Language: None🫢

~TW⚠️: Cancer. Cheating spouse. Home birth. Anxiety. Anxiety attacks.

~Author:Audrey Colman

~Release Day: October 3rd, 2025

[LuluLobbesReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Real and Raw!

🍂Rae and Austin's story goes through the whole process of falling into guilt, shame, struggles, etc as a believer and how to find God's grace in the end.

🍂It is a beautiful story of working through the consequences of your actions, taking accountability, and finding redemption. It shows the real push and pull between the knowledge that God is there and really knowing God and His goodness.

🍂If you are looking for more of a day-to-day romance, its slow but steady growth and a lot of beautiful faith then this is the book for you.

🍂Spice :1: Desires, kissing, making out, holding, close-door.

🍂Language:0

🍂This book was given as an ARC, all thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the author, publisher, or more.

[Lizzy Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the privilege of being an arc reader for Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine. This is a book that dives into a situation many have found themselves in whether it resulted in pregnancy or not. Reading this book really helped heal me in some of my own faith struggles. I also loved reading it while waiting to go into labor with my own daughter. I will say, Raegan did frustrate me a little from time to time. Overall though, it really was a great book that tackled topics many people struggle with. If anything, the message of the book in itself makes it worth the read!!

[Ella Noellee · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️4
This was so good! I loved all the faith and redemption themes. And I loved that this book showed us that God forgives.
I love in character grow with with Austin and Rae. Also their baby!!🥹 the second chance romance was great too.
This was a cute read I really enjoyed🥰
📚 would recommend

tropes:
🍉second chance romance
🍉baker FMC
🍉baseball player MMC
🍉faith & redemption themes
🍉small town
🍉trusting Gods plan
🍉dual pov

CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door) (some innuendo)
- no language

~Thank you Audrey for sending me this ARC~

[Alisha Crandall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely enjoyed this book and wish there were so many more like it. The main characters are much younger than me but SO much of this book resonated with me still. Looking forward to more from this author!

[Barbara Tucker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I found Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine to be an easy read with an interesting story line and characters. The story reminds the reader how electrifying a first love can be. It also takes the reader through the emotional toll that poor choices can cause. Yet, the best part of this novel is how it shows that through the grace of God we can be free from our mistakes, forgiven of our sins, and filled with the Spirit.
I’m not sure who the author’s intended audience is, but I think it would be a great book for teenagers to read.

[Deena Peterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loosely based on a country song, this story introduces Raegan and Austin, a young couple in love who change their lives in one night.

Colman has crafted a book filled with hope and redemption. She perfectly demonstrates that Christians can make choices that go against what God wants for themselves, but He doesn’t throw them away like last week’s bad fish.

Instead, Raegan grows and learns from her choices. Her life isn’t easy, but is rich with love. Austin goes on his own healing journey, finding his way to God and forgiveness.

This story is about redemption and reconciliation and is a powerful testament to the power of God to use our choices, both good and not good, to grow us in His grace and mercy.

I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited.

[Marti Pack · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful story of two young people who wanted to make the right choices, but feelings, and their own desires got in front and smacked them in the face. This story walks you through guilt, shame and forgiveness. It reveals God’s love and grace. Most importantly it shows that forgiveness begins with asking God for forgiveness and making a choice to forgive oneself for sinning.

This book reminded me so much of how my husband and I walked through a similar situation. We recently celebrated 37 years of marriage. God’s forgiveness is beautiful.

I would highly recommend this book to Young Adults.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Couldn’t put it down, read it quick. Love the characters and the growth they go through! So glad I was able to come across content like this one. I need more books like this one!

[Melissa Kloosterman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offered a refreshing take on love and God’s redemption. Though things didn’t go according to human plan, the story made it clear that God has a bigger plan. Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine was full of love and romance without taking it too far. Many times I felt like I was right inside the main character’s heads and feeling the storyline along with them. The two points of view and two timeframes painted a full picture of the story without any confusion about whose perspective we were reading or when the story was taken place.

[Menallie Slusher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute read!

It is so hard to write Christian books without it sounding preachy or cheesy, but Audrey managed it.

This book was the perfect mix of sweet and dealing with hard things, characters trying to put God first while not being perfect.

The book was well paced and In enjoyed the flashbacks to help give more context to the current story.

Thank you Audrey for this ARC

[Jacklynn Crummel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book truly takes you on a journey!! It follows Austin and Reagan as they meet, fall in love, make mistakes, drift apart, question everything (and each other), and ultimately find their way back to what really matters.

I especially appreciated how Audrey wove in realistic, real life details, like the inclusion of a home birth, that you don’t often see in fiction. The way the characters wrestled with their faith felt authentic and deeply relatable.

It’s a beautifully written, emotional, and faith-filled second chance romance that left me smiling! 💕

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book.

⭐️ 3.5
🌶️: 1 (level three on the closeddoorromance scale)
Language: none
Age: 17+

Synopsis:
Love isn’t a country song… Is it? 

Raegan Carter feels like she’s been tossed into one of her favorite country songs. From right after senior year, to the tailgate of his truck, to giving more than her heart with the help of a mason jar… Her life matches the lyrics. But forever ends abruptly when her boyfriend signs a contract to play Minor League Baseball in Atlanta. 
At home in Clear Creek, Raegan lives her life as a single mom and cafe owner, wondering if she’ll ever see Austin again. Wondering if God has more for her, if He’ll forgive her. Trying to figure out how to live out the motto of free, forgiven, and filled that Ms. Rosa taught her.

On the ball field Austin Thomas is focused, driven, and strategic. But off the field… doubt and questions cloud his vision. 
Life changed once his parents' marriage ended; the subsequent move made his dream of baseball seem almost out of reach. But a Rae of Sunshine and his new baseball Coach pushed away the clouds. Now that he’s living his dream has it cost him the two greatest relationships he’s ever had? Old friends pop back into his life, and new teammates encourage him to pursue God. Caught in a tug-of-war can Austin find his way back to the sunshine?

Will their memories forever taste like watermelon moonshine, or is there something sweeter to come?

Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine is a closed door romance with Christian themes. 

Review:
This was a sweet story about faith and redemption. We see the theme of forgiveness and second-chance love. If you are a baseball fan, this will be a hit for you. I appreciated the honest approach to being a single mom, home birth, raising a child alone, and struggling with one’s faith.

The dual timeline was fine except there wasn’t always a clue that the present timeline had moved forward a few months. I also had a hard time with the idea that this was a small town, the FMC and MMC and their families went to the same church, but her situation was unknown to his family/him, although the entire church seemed to know.

Overall, I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for clean, closed door, and second chance romance.

Tropes:
🍉Second chance romance ❤️
🍉Baker/single mom/teen FMC 🧁
🍉Baseball player MMC ⚾️
🍉Small town 🏡
🍉Redemption theme ⛪️
🍉Dual POV 👩👱‍♂️
🍉Dual timelines 🕰️

[Louise Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine by Audrey Colman has quickly become one of my favorite reads. From the very first page, I found myself completely absorbed in the narrative, captivated by the characters and their journeys. Colman undoubtedly possesses remarkable talent and has effectively utilized their storytelling abilities to craft a narrative that lingers in your thoughts and feels authentic, rendering the book unputdownable. The way she explores the complexities of faith is particularly striking; it’s refreshing to see a portrayal of Christians who, despite their best intentions, stumble and make significant mistakes. This honest depiction of human fallibility adds a layer of authenticity that many readers can relate to.

The book delves into the consequences of sin, but it doesn’t stop there. Colman masterfully illustrates the themes of redemption and grace that come from turning to God. As the characters navigate their struggles, the emotional depth of their experiences is palpable. You can’t help but become invested in their outcomes, rooting for their growth and healing. The narrative is rich with moments that tug at the heartstrings, reminding us that while life can be messy, there is always hope for restoration.

One of the standout features of the story is its unique structure, which shifts seamlessly between past and present, allowing readers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the two main characters. This back-and-forth approach not only enriches the storyline but also highlights the characters' development over time. Colman doesn’t shy away from addressing difficult themes, yet she balances these with a profound sense of God’s goodness, illustrating how He can work all things for good. Overall, this incredible book left a lasting impression on me, and I loved every moment spent within its pages.

[Audra Christianson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the ease of God and faith in this book. It’s what I’m looking for this year. More God. More faith-filled stories. It’s what everyone needs. And this book was filled with that. Buuuut…I really really didn’t like something that this entire book hinged around. I think it was done this way in order to keep the relationship between the two characters growing with God the way they did, but I don’t feel like it was worth it. This is just my opinion about this one factor of the story. Because apart from that, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

The reason I rated it low is because of a spoiler. Only read below if you’ve read the book or want a spoiler.
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SPOILER: She is pregnant, chooses not to tell him, nor does anyone in her life guide her to do so beyond a small nudge. And he doesn’t find out until his daughter is 8 months old (and it’s because someone else tells him, not because she decides to). WHAT?! This is not a Christian theme in my opinion. He is a great guy. He loves her. She even says she wanted him during the birth. Yet she chose not to tell him. When she found out she was pregnant she chose to have the baby, and knew she would no matter what he thought about it, but then does not even give him the opportunity to be a part of the birth or be a part of his daughter’s life from day 1. This is absolutely not a Christian value. It would be different if he was abusive and her/baby needed protecting from him, but that was not the case here at all. This piece of the story absolutely ruined it for me. I have my own personal thoughts about this and if this wouldn’t bother you, then you will LOVE this story. This is just my personal take on this specific piece of the story.

[4 The Love Of Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to author Audrey Coleman for allowing me to be a part of her ARC Team. I hope to read more of her work!
Tastes Like Watermelon follows the love story of Rae and Austin and how one decision can change the trajectory of our lives. The prevailing message of the story is the redeeming grace of God. How he uses the unexpected for His glory. I appreciate the author for treating themes like teen pregnancy, shame, infidelity, cancer, and loss with respect and decency.
At times the timeline went too fast for me and I would have appreciated a deeper dive into how Austin’s family processed learning about Grace and if they built a relationship with her. We only have the point of view from Rae’s family.
In all, it was a good read and I would recommend it to teens and parents of teens.

[Amanda Laine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reagan and Austin are typical teenagers in a small town and are trying to be God honoring in their relationship but a night filled with watermelon moonshine causes consequences neither were expecting. This story is filled with strong redemption themes and showing you're never too far from God’s love.The story leans on the angsty side which is understandable given the age of the characters and topics that are dealt with. I appreciate the tactfulness and grace that was brought to the topics in this book.

[Tori]

I received an E-ARC of this book to write an honest review.

I really wanted to like this book as I've been getting more into romance and am always happy to support debut authors. Unfortunately, I ended up DNFing after a few chapters. There isn't anything wrong per se with Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine. It's just not the book for me at this time.

I encourage readers to check out the other reviews here and see if this book is for them.

[Ashleigh King · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think the story as a whole was cute, but the descriptions were so repetitive and the characters felt very immature at times (they are in high school so I guess it fits). In a single chapter, Austin described the town as "cabbage patch" 7 times which annoyed me. I also get frustrated when characters beat around the bush and take a long time to admit their feelings or say what needs to be said. That was very much the case with this book.
I do appreciate how relatable certain aspects of this book were, such as the conviction and guilt that you feel when you know that you have sinned. That feeling of being far from God.
Overall, I thought the book was just "okay".

[Kayla H | Mom Devours Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the privilege of being included in the writing process of this book from early on, and I really enjoyed reading it. It incorporates some fantastic tropes, such as a surprise baby, a single mom, and an athlete. Raegan and Austin's story is one of faith, love, and redemption.

Thank you, Audrey, for allowing me to read the ARC version. The opinions are all mine.