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Rebound: Connor & MacKenzie
She lives all in. He plays it safe. This time, neither is backing down.
MacKenzie Lockhart is done playing defense in her personal life. Back in the small town of Good Hope after years of competition, she’s rebuilding on her own terms—focused on coaching, family, and staying grounded. Romance isn’t part of the plan… until Connor Brody moves in next door and turns her carefully ordered life upside down.
Connor came home to regroup, not fall for the woman who’s always challenged him most. After learning the hard way that patience can feel safer than desire, he’s content to keep his heart guarded. But the closer he gets to Mac, the harder it is to ignore what’s always been there—and the risk of losing her if he stays on the sidelines.
Rebound is a slow-burn, neighbors-to-lovers, second-chance contemporary romance about trust, timing, and learning how to choose each other—before it’s too late.
MacKenzie Lockhart is done playing defense in her personal life. Back in the small town of Good Hope after years of competition, she’s rebuilding on her own terms—focused on coaching, family, and staying grounded. Romance isn’t part of the plan… until Connor Brody moves in next door and turns her carefully ordered life upside down.
Connor came home to regroup, not fall for the woman who’s always challenged him most. After learning the hard way that patience can feel safer than desire, he’s content to keep his heart guarded. But the closer he gets to Mac, the harder it is to ignore what’s always been there—and the risk of losing her if he stays on the sidelines.
Rebound is a slow-burn, neighbors-to-lovers, second-chance contemporary romance about trust, timing, and learning how to choose each other—before it’s too late.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 17, 2026
39 people are currently reading
6 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Kirk
227 books1,614 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Cindy Kirk is a Booksellers' Best Award Winner, a National Readers' Choice Awards finalist, and a Publishers Weekly bestselling author. Cindy launched her Good Hope series with a bang. Christmas in Good Hope hit #1 on the Amazon bestseller list for both Contemporary Romance and Women's Fiction.
A lifelong Nebraska resident, Cindy started writing after taking a class at a local community college. An incurable romantic, Cindy loves seeing her characters grow and learn from their mistakes and, in the process, achieve a happy ending.
Someone once told Cindy that to know a writer you just have to read what she's written; she hopes that once you read her books you can tell she is an eternal optimist, one who truly believes in the power of love. She invites you to kick off your shoes, pick up one of her books, and get to know her.
Cindy and her high school sweetheart husband live on an acreage with their two dogs.
A lifelong Nebraska resident, Cindy started writing after taking a class at a local community college. An incurable romantic, Cindy loves seeing her characters grow and learn from their mistakes and, in the process, achieve a happy ending.
Someone once told Cindy that to know a writer you just have to read what she's written; she hopes that once you read her books you can tell she is an eternal optimist, one who truly believes in the power of love. She invites you to kick off your shoes, pick up one of her books, and get to know her.
Cindy and her high school sweetheart husband live on an acreage with their two dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 22, 2026
The 4th book of The Next Generation Series; Rebound: Connor & MacKenzie centers around reestablishing friendships after years of being away from the hometown that they both grew up in.
Connor is back in Good Hope for the wedding of his twin brother Connor. MacKenzie (known as Mac) has been a professional women’s basketball player for years and has recently retired and has returned to Good Hope. Connor and Mac, both at the wedding, enjoy the evening together celebrating the festivities dancing and enjoying each other’s company.
Being home, Connor decides to stay for an unknown time as he was in a long-term relationship that had recently ended. He signs up for a short-term lease and is pleasantly surprised that Mac is a neighbor.
With the closeness of each other as to where they live both Connor and Mac spend quite a bit of time together with Connor seeming to be the one initiating the time they spend together. He is though so cautious as he does not want to make the same mistakes he made with his last relationship. In the meantime, Mac is trying to adjust to not being on a schedule or being told where to be and what to do as what happened during the years of being with the WNBA.
The big question is whether Mac can adjust to life in which she can make her own decisions yet let Connor in her life the way he wants to be.
Once again, another enjoyable read by Cindy Kirk. I received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher, and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
Connor is back in Good Hope for the wedding of his twin brother Connor. MacKenzie (known as Mac) has been a professional women’s basketball player for years and has recently retired and has returned to Good Hope. Connor and Mac, both at the wedding, enjoy the evening together celebrating the festivities dancing and enjoying each other’s company.
Being home, Connor decides to stay for an unknown time as he was in a long-term relationship that had recently ended. He signs up for a short-term lease and is pleasantly surprised that Mac is a neighbor.
With the closeness of each other as to where they live both Connor and Mac spend quite a bit of time together with Connor seeming to be the one initiating the time they spend together. He is though so cautious as he does not want to make the same mistakes he made with his last relationship. In the meantime, Mac is trying to adjust to not being on a schedule or being told where to be and what to do as what happened during the years of being with the WNBA.
The big question is whether Mac can adjust to life in which she can make her own decisions yet let Connor in her life the way he wants to be.
Once again, another enjoyable read by Cindy Kirk. I received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher, and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
March 22, 2026
This is the 4th book in the Good Hope Next generation series. Returning to Good Hope is like reuniting with old friends. Connor is back in town to attend his brother’s wedding & stay for the summer. Mac is a retired WNBA player who returns to reconnect with friends. Both of them are spending time together & trying to figure out what their next moves are. I received an ARC of this book & am voluntarily reviewing it for the author.
March 22, 2026
Such a good book.
I loved that even with the smooth connection felt between Connor and Mac there was still work to do. Makes this couple feel more authentic. Enjoyed the way both of them came out to me as I read.
__elly__
I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
I loved that even with the smooth connection felt between Connor and Mac there was still work to do. Makes this couple feel more authentic. Enjoyed the way both of them came out to me as I read.
__elly__
I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 21, 2026
Revisiting Good Hope is like coming home to a place where one can heal, be supported and cared for. For me, to escape for a time and be whisked away to such a place is refreshing. In this next generation in Good Hope, we follow Connor Brody and MacKenzie Lockhart as they find community, opportunities and new beginnings in Good Hope.
Connor is returning to Good Hope after being gone for more than ten years to attend his twin’s wedding. At Callum and Brynn’s wedding, Connor and MacKenzie (Mac) meet up and spend the evening dancing and enjoying each other’s company. Mac has been home for a few months after leaving the WNBA to figure things out in her life. She does not want to be the person asking for more as she has learned to be independent in her life and career.
Connor’s previous relationship in Seattle wasn’t working as they just didn’t fit anymore. He was doing a lot more compromising than she was. Given both Mac’s and Connor’s backgrounds and then coming home to figure out the next chapter in their lives is how their friendship and love story progresses.
The slow burn of their relationship is often due to fear of falling into past patterns. Connor is working through it and more on board with moving on but Mac is overthinking too much and not listening to her heart.
Cindy Kirk is an excellent story teller. There is so much to unpack in this visit to Good Hope. I loved how Connor’s and Mac’s relationship moved from possibilities into intention. They found that they could be themselves. Not shrinking or controlling but loving each other and cheering one another on.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Connor is returning to Good Hope after being gone for more than ten years to attend his twin’s wedding. At Callum and Brynn’s wedding, Connor and MacKenzie (Mac) meet up and spend the evening dancing and enjoying each other’s company. Mac has been home for a few months after leaving the WNBA to figure things out in her life. She does not want to be the person asking for more as she has learned to be independent in her life and career.
Connor’s previous relationship in Seattle wasn’t working as they just didn’t fit anymore. He was doing a lot more compromising than she was. Given both Mac’s and Connor’s backgrounds and then coming home to figure out the next chapter in their lives is how their friendship and love story progresses.
The slow burn of their relationship is often due to fear of falling into past patterns. Connor is working through it and more on board with moving on but Mac is overthinking too much and not listening to her heart.
Cindy Kirk is an excellent story teller. There is so much to unpack in this visit to Good Hope. I loved how Connor’s and Mac’s relationship moved from possibilities into intention. They found that they could be themselves. Not shrinking or controlling but loving each other and cheering one another on.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 29, 2026
Ms. Kirk gives readers a sweet romance set in Good Hope. I love seeing the kids I had seen in the original series growing up. We are back with the Brody twins, Callum and Connor. Callum is getting married to Brynn. Of course, Connor came home for the wedding. It came at a good time. Connor had just broken up with his girlfriend and decided to take some time in Good Hope to figure out his next move. Yes, readers get all the Good Hope kindness that we are used to. Seeing the next generation start their adult lives is heartwarming. The prodigal child is coming home possibly to stay.
MacKenzie Lockhart was the hometown basketball star that had made it. She just played and won the national championship. She decided to retire. Now she is back in her hometown consumed with thoughts of next steps. Where does she go from here? Coming back to Good Hope was surreal. Mac’s life in Good Hope was full of things to do. Her priority was always basketball. She missed out on all the normal things kids her age was doing. Basketball ruled her life and decisions got made for her. Her life was ruled by game and practice schedules. She loved it, but felt like it was time to go into another direction. Time for Mac to take control of her own life.
Connor and Mac started spending time together once they discovered they were neighbors. Spending time together gradually turned into something else. What that something else was had not been discussed. Both had some issues in that area. Connor with his last girlfriend and Mac just never had a relationship previously. This was new territory for them both. How do two people learn how to work together to forge a future together? This book was more about friends turning into more. These two are also focused on figuring out the next steps for their lives. It may not be a good idea to add another person into the mix when you really don't know what you want to do. Will they come together or will they push each other away?
MacKenzie Lockhart was the hometown basketball star that had made it. She just played and won the national championship. She decided to retire. Now she is back in her hometown consumed with thoughts of next steps. Where does she go from here? Coming back to Good Hope was surreal. Mac’s life in Good Hope was full of things to do. Her priority was always basketball. She missed out on all the normal things kids her age was doing. Basketball ruled her life and decisions got made for her. Her life was ruled by game and practice schedules. She loved it, but felt like it was time to go into another direction. Time for Mac to take control of her own life.
Connor and Mac started spending time together once they discovered they were neighbors. Spending time together gradually turned into something else. What that something else was had not been discussed. Both had some issues in that area. Connor with his last girlfriend and Mac just never had a relationship previously. This was new territory for them both. How do two people learn how to work together to forge a future together? This book was more about friends turning into more. These two are also focused on figuring out the next steps for their lives. It may not be a good idea to add another person into the mix when you really don't know what you want to do. Will they come together or will they push each other away?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Connor and Mac's book was interesting. I hope I can find the right words to describe how it made me feel. I can say the emotions expressed were very level. Neither character was really angry or sad, or extremely happy with each other. Connor did seem happier with Mac than she was with him. It was all so self contained and appeared to be very fragile.
I did like that the pace of their relationship seemed steady and they grew closer gradually. I don't know if something can be calming and comfortable while at the same time being intense. Yet, that is the impression I had of their relationship.
Both Mac and Connor brought baggage into the relationship, but who doesn't? I felt that throughout the book they were both holding back, but Connor seemed to be a little more open. There seemed to be this canopy over them of calm, quiet, and serenity but in reality, they were both walking on eggshells with each other.
Decisions were made. They discussed and confirmed their decisions would be made together. I did feel like I was left hanging. Connor and Mac, after committing to make those decisions together, didn't discuss the details in the book. It seemed to me that Mac made a decision and I was not 100% sure about the details of Connors decision. I was not convinced at all that they made any joint decision. I was more convinced Connor to the route of least resistance to make life easier for Mac.
Although I read the book in one sitting, the ending was not as satisfying for me as other Cindy Kirk books have been. Rating: 3.5 Stars
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I did like that the pace of their relationship seemed steady and they grew closer gradually. I don't know if something can be calming and comfortable while at the same time being intense. Yet, that is the impression I had of their relationship.
Both Mac and Connor brought baggage into the relationship, but who doesn't? I felt that throughout the book they were both holding back, but Connor seemed to be a little more open. There seemed to be this canopy over them of calm, quiet, and serenity but in reality, they were both walking on eggshells with each other.
Decisions were made. They discussed and confirmed their decisions would be made together. I did feel like I was left hanging. Connor and Mac, after committing to make those decisions together, didn't discuss the details in the book. It seemed to me that Mac made a decision and I was not 100% sure about the details of Connors decision. I was not convinced at all that they made any joint decision. I was more convinced Connor to the route of least resistance to make life easier for Mac.
Although I read the book in one sitting, the ending was not as satisfying for me as other Cindy Kirk books have been. Rating: 3.5 Stars
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
March 17, 2026
The Good Hope Series continues with the children of the original couples. Connor Brody returns to Good Hope for the summer to attend his twin brother’s wedding. Feeling adrift after his recent breakup, he notices his friends pairing up. When Mackenzie Lockhart enters the wedding reception, Connor asks her to dance, sparking hope that his luck is changing. Mackenzie, known as “Mac,” has just ended her WNBA career after winning the national championship. Now uncertain about her future, she returns home to reassess her life. Coincidentally, Connor moves into a temporary summer rental right next door to Mac, creating a sense of destiny. This sets the stage for a charming, PG slow-burn romance. Both Mac and Connor are likable characters, though I found Mac’s behavior a bit frustrating at times. She’s going through significant changes and expects Connor to be a mind reader, understanding her problems without expressing them. Connor, a generally sweet and open-hearted guy, is still a bit cautious after his previous relationship ended. I thoroughly enjoy revisiting Good Hope, and this new generation is proving to be as captivating as the original series. I received an arc of this book from the author and publisher for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed Rebound: Connor and Mackenzie. Mackenzie (“Mac”) is a recently retired WNBA champion who returns to her hometown of Good Hope after years of living under the structure of professional sports. She’s trying to figure out what life looks like when she’s finally making her own choices. Connor, who grew up in Good Hope but now lives in Seattle, is back in town for his brother Callum’s wedding when the two reconnect—and the chemistry between them is immediate.
I especially liked how naturally the relationship developed. Mac and Connor spend time sailing, taking ferry trips to nearby islands, and exploring local events, which lets their connection grow in a very believable way.
Both characters are carrying some baggage. Mac is weighing new career opportunities but keeps her plans close to the vest, while Connor is coming out of a relationship where he was always the one compromising. Watching them learn to communicate and trust each other made their happily-ever-after feel well earned. A warm, enjoyable romance set in a charming small-town community.
I especially liked how naturally the relationship developed. Mac and Connor spend time sailing, taking ferry trips to nearby islands, and exploring local events, which lets their connection grow in a very believable way.
Both characters are carrying some baggage. Mac is weighing new career opportunities but keeps her plans close to the vest, while Connor is coming out of a relationship where he was always the one compromising. Watching them learn to communicate and trust each other made their happily-ever-after feel well earned. A warm, enjoyable romance set in a charming small-town community.
March 18, 2026
Connor and Mac have come back to Good Hope and reconnect at his brother's wedding. As they end up bumping into each other, they find themselves slowly entering into a relationship. They have emotional baggage which seems to hold them back from finding true happiness. Mac has been so driven to succeed at basketball and now that she has retired, she is trying to figure out what she wants to do next with her life. Her ingrained habits and emotional independence are tough to deal with and get through. Connor is taking the summer to figure out who he really is after a relationship that had him constantly remaking himself to please her. The slow relationship development was nice to see along with catching up with secondary characters. I just had a problem liking Mac. She was a confusing character to me and I will say that I've read a lot of books by this author and this is a first for me. I still think the writing is good and the overall story arc is developed nicely. Some stories connect to some people and not others and this is one for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Connor has come home for his brother's wedding and also to reset. Mac is contemplating her next move after being at the top of WNBA.
Mac is a young woman who we find out is very guarded and does not let anyone in easily into her life. Most of her life was spent in the basketball world, she now has to adjust back to normal living. Connor too is adjusting after recently coming out of a relationship where he felt he made effort and compromise only to see it didn't work out after all. As Connor and Mac starts navigating getting to know each other Mac has to let ago of the past of feeling alone and trapped into certain circumstance and Connor has to adjust being there the way that is comfortable for Mac and her opening up herself to him by being vulnerable I enjoyed the slow burn of their relationship and it did not feel rush especially in a world where they are shows where people getting married on the first day/week. A sweet addition to the series.
Mac is a young woman who we find out is very guarded and does not let anyone in easily into her life. Most of her life was spent in the basketball world, she now has to adjust back to normal living. Connor too is adjusting after recently coming out of a relationship where he felt he made effort and compromise only to see it didn't work out after all. As Connor and Mac starts navigating getting to know each other Mac has to let ago of the past of feeling alone and trapped into certain circumstance and Connor has to adjust being there the way that is comfortable for Mac and her opening up herself to him by being vulnerable I enjoyed the slow burn of their relationship and it did not feel rush especially in a world where they are shows where people getting married on the first day/week. A sweet addition to the series.
March 18, 2026
Another great read by the amazing Cindy Kirk. I love the entire Good Hope collection. As with many of Cindy’s books this book is filled with lots of life lessons.
A lovely and gentle read primarily about Mackenzie and Connor. Mackenzie is a professional basketball player, returned home eight months ago to regroup snd reconnect with friends. Mac feels that her entire life has been in control by other’s. She feels unsure about her future and needs time to reassess her life.
Connor returns home to Good Hope to attend his identical twin’s wedding. Like Mac, Connor is also at a crossroads in his life, fresh from a breakup, feeling unsure of his future. Connor has always really liked Mac (as she is known to friends). With Connor fresh from a breakup and Mackenzie being cautious about letting go of any control of her life, can they both trust to allow any possible relationship flourish.
I devoured this book over two days.
A lovely and gentle read primarily about Mackenzie and Connor. Mackenzie is a professional basketball player, returned home eight months ago to regroup snd reconnect with friends. Mac feels that her entire life has been in control by other’s. She feels unsure about her future and needs time to reassess her life.
Connor returns home to Good Hope to attend his identical twin’s wedding. Like Mac, Connor is also at a crossroads in his life, fresh from a breakup, feeling unsure of his future. Connor has always really liked Mac (as she is known to friends). With Connor fresh from a breakup and Mackenzie being cautious about letting go of any control of her life, can they both trust to allow any possible relationship flourish.
I devoured this book over two days.
March 22, 2026
The latest novel in the Good Hope: Next Generation series, Ms. Kirk brings us the feature story of Connor and Mac.
Both main characters have returned to Good Hope for rejuvenation following their own desire to recalibrate their lives. In the process, Connor and Mac find themselves nextdoor neighbors and fast friends, which develops into a slow burn romance.
While the story is an enjoyable addition to the series, I felt the romance development was a bit too slow. I appreciated the realistic character flaws, but the strong focus on Mac struggling with her major life decisions felt too drawn out.
However, fans of this series will enjoy return appearances but beloved characters from both the original Good Hope series and novels in the Next Generation collection.
Overall, Rebound is a sweet addition to the series and an enjoyable read.
Both main characters have returned to Good Hope for rejuvenation following their own desire to recalibrate their lives. In the process, Connor and Mac find themselves nextdoor neighbors and fast friends, which develops into a slow burn romance.
While the story is an enjoyable addition to the series, I felt the romance development was a bit too slow. I appreciated the realistic character flaws, but the strong focus on Mac struggling with her major life decisions felt too drawn out.
However, fans of this series will enjoy return appearances but beloved characters from both the original Good Hope series and novels in the Next Generation collection.
Overall, Rebound is a sweet addition to the series and an enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mackenzie (Mac) Lockhart has retired from professional basketball and Connor Brody broke up with his girlfriend so they are both at a crossroads.
Mac moved back to GoodHope after she retired. Connor’s job can be done from anywhere and he has come back for Callum and Brynn’s wedding and the summer. They run into each other at the wedding reception then discover they are neighbors. Same duplex, different apartments. They start sharing morning coffee then start spending time together. They are so careful with each other. Mac because she hasn’t had anyone and Connor because he was so involved with his girlfriend, but they ended up wanting completely different things. Will Mac and Connor learn to share what is going on in their lives so they can move forward together?
Mac moved back to GoodHope after she retired. Connor’s job can be done from anywhere and he has come back for Callum and Brynn’s wedding and the summer. They run into each other at the wedding reception then discover they are neighbors. Same duplex, different apartments. They start sharing morning coffee then start spending time together. They are so careful with each other. Mac because she hasn’t had anyone and Connor because he was so involved with his girlfriend, but they ended up wanting completely different things. Will Mac and Connor learn to share what is going on in their lives so they can move forward together?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Conner and Mac went to the same high school in Good Hope. Now they are both in Good Hope, years later, with life changing decisions to make.
This book is the journey of them both getting to know each other and processing these changes. Mac is trying to decide her next steps after retiring from the WMBA and enjoying things she never got to do when she was growing up when focused on her basketball career.
Connor is home with family from Seattle and a relationship that didn’t work.
They each have a lot to learn as they navigate getting to know one another and not repeating past mistakes along with trying to be independent or together? They find that being independent in decisions didn’t exactly work if they want to have a relationship.
This book is the journey of them both getting to know each other and processing these changes. Mac is trying to decide her next steps after retiring from the WMBA and enjoying things she never got to do when she was growing up when focused on her basketball career.
Connor is home with family from Seattle and a relationship that didn’t work.
They each have a lot to learn as they navigate getting to know one another and not repeating past mistakes along with trying to be independent or together? They find that being independent in decisions didn’t exactly work if they want to have a relationship.
Review of advance copy received from Author
We're back in Good Hope to meet Connor and MacKenzie/Mac. They grew up together in Good Hope but their lives took different paths. Mac played in the WNBA and feels like she missed out on so many things because of the sacrifices she had to make. Connor is single again and has come home to his parents to decide what's next. They meet up at Callum and Brynn's wedding and the friendship that develops between the two is easy but are either of them being completely honest with each other? In rekindling their friendship, they must learn to trust each other if they are going to have a future. This was a sweet gentle romance for Connor and Mac which was very low in angst and drama.
It is always fantastic to to return to Good Hope and meet our favourite characters again. Another winner for me.
It is always fantastic to to return to Good Hope and meet our favourite characters again. Another winner for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Connor and MacKenzie (Mac) grew up together in Good Hope. Mac feels like she has missed out alot growing up as she was very focused on making it to the WNBA. She has moved back to Good Hope and meets up with Connor who is back in town for his twin, Callum's wedding. He decides to stay the summer in Good Hope and ends up moving next door to Mac. They rekindle their friendship and learn to trust each other to make this relationship move forward for their future.
It is nice to return to Good Hope and see the next generation. A sweet romance for Connor and MacKenzie as well as seeing snapshots into the other characters that we have learned to love.
It is nice to return to Good Hope and see the next generation. A sweet romance for Connor and MacKenzie as well as seeing snapshots into the other characters that we have learned to love.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After competing for several years, MacKenzie Lockhart is back in Good Hope. She’s focused on coaching, family, and staying grounded. Romance isn’t part of the plan until Connor Brody moves in next door. Connor came home to regroup. After learning that patience can feel safer than desire, he’s content to keep his heart guarded. But the closer he gets to Mac, the harder it is to ignore his feelings for her.
This contemporary romance is the reason why I love Cindy Kirk's writing. Her romances always leave me with an uplifted feeling. I believe we all need that right now. Her characters are loveable, her settings are memorable, and the plots leave you feeling hopeful. I recommend this story.
This contemporary romance is the reason why I love Cindy Kirk's writing. Her romances always leave me with an uplifted feeling. I believe we all need that right now. Her characters are loveable, her settings are memorable, and the plots leave you feeling hopeful. I recommend this story.
March 25, 2026
Rebound: Connor & Mackenzie is the fourth in the Good Hope - The Next Generation series but can be read as a stand alone story, however I suggest reading the previous stories for secondary character background as well as for the joy of the series. Mackenzie "Mac" Lockhart was a star in the WNBA but has since retired and moved back to Good Hope to discover her next move. She has always gone it alone but when she meets Connor Brody, she has different decisions to make. Connor has recently broken up with his longtime girlfriend and returned home to attend his twin brother's wedding and regroup. When he sees Mac at the wedding, he asks her to dance and sparks begin to ignite but neither is looking for a relationship. When he moves into the rental next door to Mac, they begin to spend more time together but both must learn to communicate their needs and include each other in important decisions so they can find their happily ever after. This is another great story in the series in which we get to see the younger generation grow up and fall in love.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am very ambivalent about this book. I have been reading Cindy’s books for years and have loved them all, but this one seemed different. Mac and Conner met in a time when both were making high career decisions. The relationship was subtle, almost too subtle. Although understanding how Mac saw her decisions were her own, the communication between the two was all in their heads. It was frustrating and boring which has never happened ti me with Cindy’s books. I always enjoy the sweetness but this didn’t cut it for me. ☹️
March 16, 2026
I had an Advanced Reader copy of this book. I thought the story of Connor and Mackenzie was very good. I felt that Ms. Kirk changed up her writing style for this book. I felt settled reading it.
Connor we know from the earlier series and Mackenzie is new to us. Mackenzie is a women’s basketball player who is trying to decide what to do next. Connor is in town to celebrate his brother’s wedding.
The story was good and like I said, it settled me when I was reading it. I love Ms. Kirk’s books and always find them fascinating.
Connor we know from the earlier series and Mackenzie is new to us. Mackenzie is a women’s basketball player who is trying to decide what to do next. Connor is in town to celebrate his brother’s wedding.
The story was good and like I said, it settled me when I was reading it. I love Ms. Kirk’s books and always find them fascinating.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Wonderful
I really enjoyed this latest book I the series
Connor Brody is back in Good Hope for his twins wedding to Brynn.
Mackenzie Lockhart is also at the wedding after helping her team win the WNBA final a few weeks ago.
I found it to be a gentle read, nothing big happening other than Mac deciding if she wanted to continue playing Basketball or go another route
Connor who is also in Good Hope from Seattle after his relationship ended
They end up being neighbours and spend a fair amount of time together and I loved how the story progressed from there
I highly recommend this book to anybody but especially hopeless romantics like me
I really enjoyed this latest book I the series
Connor Brody is back in Good Hope for his twins wedding to Brynn.
Mackenzie Lockhart is also at the wedding after helping her team win the WNBA final a few weeks ago.
I found it to be a gentle read, nothing big happening other than Mac deciding if she wanted to continue playing Basketball or go another route
Connor who is also in Good Hope from Seattle after his relationship ended
They end up being neighbours and spend a fair amount of time together and I loved how the story progressed from there
I highly recommend this book to anybody but especially hopeless romantics like me
March 19, 2026
Rebound was like a warm hug during a storm. The story was very calm and even, but you could the characters were going through personal turmoil.
Connor and Mac are both people who are going through change, changes that will affect their futures. The question they each need to answer is what do they want that future to look like, and are they ready to change themselves to get that future.
I love this generational series. It’s so fun connecting with kids from the “big” series and see how they have grown, and how they are the same/different than their parents.
Connor and Mac are both people who are going through change, changes that will affect their futures. The question they each need to answer is what do they want that future to look like, and are they ready to change themselves to get that future.
I love this generational series. It’s so fun connecting with kids from the “big” series and see how they have grown, and how they are the same/different than their parents.
March 19, 2026
This book is the newest edition in the Good Hope Series Next Generation. If you have read any of the previous books in the series this one continues letting us see a love story unfold with children we grew up following. I loved how the author, Cindy Kirk draws us a complete picture in her descriptions to make us believe we might actually have been there, almost like a Hallmark movie! I really love how she references characters we remember from previous stories. A definite feel good love story which I enjoyed so much!
March 20, 2026
While I did enjoy this story I have to say it felt like a heavier theme than other Good Hope storylines. I really felt the stress of Mackenzie’s baggage and wanted to shake and wake her up,; I wanted her deal with life differently. However I will say that both Mackenzie and Conner probably have more realistic baggage that reflects this more current generation. The entire time I just kept thinking is this how my daughters thinks and deals? I do appreciate that their love story had a nice long build but all in all I felt a bit old reading this story.
March 22, 2026
MacKenzie has returned home after many years of professional basketball. Connor is home for his twin's wedding and has just broken up with his girlfriend. Both are looking for a slower life and to see what lies ahead. The romance in this book is extremely slow and well thought out by both characters. I found the slowness of coming to personal growth and the for them developing their romance to be profound. This is right up there as one of my favorites in the Good Hope writings. I am an ARC reader and give my review freely.
March 19, 2026
The next generation books about Good Hope characters have been just as great as the first generation! I really enjoyed reading about Connor and Mackenzie and how they each struggled to let the other in but also were able to recognize the missing piece to be together. Despite the connection they felt they still struggled to make big decisions without including the others. What a great end to the story and their happy ending!
March 20, 2026
📕 ARC REVIEW 📕
🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’ve been waiting for Conner’s story ever since his brother’s book, and Rebound by Cindy Kirk didn’t disappoint. When I was younger, Conner was always my favourite—but now, after reading Callum’s book, he’s actually won me over.
That said, Conner and Mackenzie’s story is so sweet and heartfelt. Watching him grow and finally open up made their relationship feel real and earned, and their ending left me with the biggest smile.
🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’ve been waiting for Conner’s story ever since his brother’s book, and Rebound by Cindy Kirk didn’t disappoint. When I was younger, Conner was always my favourite—but now, after reading Callum’s book, he’s actually won me over.
That said, Conner and Mackenzie’s story is so sweet and heartfelt. Watching him grow and finally open up made their relationship feel real and earned, and their ending left me with the biggest smile.
March 19, 2026
Connor and Mackenzie
I have always been a Connor fan so I was excited for him to find love. I felt his character was well developed and he had that smooth Good Hope personality. MacKenzie did not know how to let people in and I felt she took things too personally. I would have loved to see more of her growth in an extra chapter. Glad they figured it out in the end.
I have always been a Connor fan so I was excited for him to find love. I felt his character was well developed and he had that smooth Good Hope personality. MacKenzie did not know how to let people in and I felt she took things too personally. I would have loved to see more of her growth in an extra chapter. Glad they figured it out in the end.
March 21, 2026
I love all visits to Good Hope but I had a harder time becoming emotionally invested in this story. It felt slow and heavy which is not the usual feeling I get from this series. Overall it was still enjoyable but it took me longer to get through than usual.
I received an advanced copy and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
I received an advanced copy and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
March 18, 2026
I love reading this author. I enjoyed this book very much. I think a bit different style this time around, and it felt like a good read. I liked their stories, and their interactions getting to know one another again. I do recommend this book, and you won't be disappointed.
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