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By Next August
Not yet published
Expected 30 Jan 26What if I told you none of it was accidental?
Getting close to people isn't an option for Kory Brooks anymore. After a lifetime of being
left behind, she's traded her once-bold heart for guarded walls and stubborn
independence. Letting someone in just isn't worth the risk.
Dominic Rissi knows the feeling. His own family walked away years ago, and he's kept
that pain buried ever since. But Kory? She's the one he's never been able to
forget-timing just never worked in their favor... Until now.
When work throws them together on a cross-state road trip, sparks fly in more ways
than one. Kory lays out a no flirting, no feelings, no exceptions. But rules have a
way of falling apart when hearts get involved-especially with Dom's quiet charm and
his unwavering insistence on winning her over.
Then, an unexpected tragedy lands them in the hospital. While anxiously waiting for
answers, secrets come out and emotional walls are torn down forcing them to
protect themselves like always, or finally take the risk of letting someone all the way in.
In a story of love, loyalty, loss, and hope-it takes just one year for everything to
change, bringing each of them unexpected closure and revealing that maybe, together,
they're exactly what each other needs to heal and move forward.
Getting close to people isn't an option for Kory Brooks anymore. After a lifetime of being
left behind, she's traded her once-bold heart for guarded walls and stubborn
independence. Letting someone in just isn't worth the risk.
Dominic Rissi knows the feeling. His own family walked away years ago, and he's kept
that pain buried ever since. But Kory? She's the one he's never been able to
forget-timing just never worked in their favor... Until now.
When work throws them together on a cross-state road trip, sparks fly in more ways
than one. Kory lays out a no flirting, no feelings, no exceptions. But rules have a
way of falling apart when hearts get involved-especially with Dom's quiet charm and
his unwavering insistence on winning her over.
Then, an unexpected tragedy lands them in the hospital. While anxiously waiting for
answers, secrets come out and emotional walls are torn down forcing them to
protect themselves like always, or finally take the risk of letting someone all the way in.
In a story of love, loyalty, loss, and hope-it takes just one year for everything to
change, bringing each of them unexpected closure and revealing that maybe, together,
they're exactly what each other needs to heal and move forward.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 30, 2026
22 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Pierce
3 books30 followersAshley Pierce lives in Southeast Michigan, where she was born and raised. A lifelong fan of psychological thrillers and romances, she brings real-life Michigan moments into her fiction, blending hometown charm with emotional depth and suspense.
She writes a wide range of stories—some gripping and intense, others heartfelt and romantic—giving readers something fresh and unexpected with every book. She prefers handwriting her stories— with a pen dripped in experience, emotion, and hometown pride.
Ashley spends her non-writing time reading and spending time with her husband, kids, and dogs, usually outdoors or at the lake.
Her debut novel, Felicitous, came out in June 2021. Her second book, Scars of August, was released in March 2025. Thanks to its success, Scars of August is now kicking off The August Series and is getting a re-release on October 24 2025. The much-anticipated second book in the series, By Next August, is dropping on January 30, 2026.
She writes a wide range of stories—some gripping and intense, others heartfelt and romantic—giving readers something fresh and unexpected with every book. She prefers handwriting her stories— with a pen dripped in experience, emotion, and hometown pride.
Ashley spends her non-writing time reading and spending time with her husband, kids, and dogs, usually outdoors or at the lake.
Her debut novel, Felicitous, came out in June 2021. Her second book, Scars of August, was released in March 2025. Thanks to its success, Scars of August is now kicking off The August Series and is getting a re-release on October 24 2025. The much-anticipated second book in the series, By Next August, is dropping on January 30, 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 18, 2026
Loved being an ARC for this story. Personally didn’t realize this was the second of a series so it acts well as a stand alone too.
Such a cute story of two people destined to be together. Perfect tropes and slow build to their story.
Nothing was rushed or left out, which is fantastic!
Thanks for this opportunity.
Such a cute story of two people destined to be together. Perfect tropes and slow build to their story.
Nothing was rushed or left out, which is fantastic!
Thanks for this opportunity.
January 22, 2026
By Next August Review 🥨🏍️
I received an ARC for this book, so I want to thank Ashley Pierce for sending me this. I also want to say that I knew this books was the second one of a series, but, even being a Swiftie and knowing that Scars of August was inspired by August by the one and only Taylor Swift, I decided not to read, because I just don’t like love triangles, with that being said, let’s dive right into Dom’s and Kory’s story.
Since the prologue we find out that Dom is and always has been enchanted (see what I did here?) by Kory, but as he said, the timing for them has never been right, until it is.
I loved Dom’s persistence, he wanted Kory, wanted to be in her orbit for so long, that when he sees the opportunity, he takes it with both hands, and gives his everything to make her fall in love with him.
Kory first and foremost is an amazing friend, even not reading the first book, It’s clear as the day that she is a loyal, loving and caring friend. But she is also guarded, she has been abandoned so many times before, that she guard her heart to protect herself from being hurt.
What she doesn’t understand is that Dom would prefer hurting himself before hurting her, how could show her a hundred different ways, and she would find a way of distancing herself, out of loyalty for her best friend (since Dom’s best friend is also her best friend ex) and to protect her heart.
By 60% of the book I started crying and didn’t stop. Dom’s relationship with his sister made me bawl my eyes out, Dom’s being a golden retriever through and through but still hiding some parts of himself were so so sad.
But as Dom said, by next august, they were together, in love, and celebrating in a snowed beach. What a beautiful ending it was for this beautiful story. I don’t even have to think for how many stars this boom deserves, 5 ⭐️no questions asked. So so excited for the next one. 🥨🏍️
I received an ARC for this book, so I want to thank Ashley Pierce for sending me this. I also want to say that I knew this books was the second one of a series, but, even being a Swiftie and knowing that Scars of August was inspired by August by the one and only Taylor Swift, I decided not to read, because I just don’t like love triangles, with that being said, let’s dive right into Dom’s and Kory’s story.
Since the prologue we find out that Dom is and always has been enchanted (see what I did here?) by Kory, but as he said, the timing for them has never been right, until it is.
I loved Dom’s persistence, he wanted Kory, wanted to be in her orbit for so long, that when he sees the opportunity, he takes it with both hands, and gives his everything to make her fall in love with him.
Kory first and foremost is an amazing friend, even not reading the first book, It’s clear as the day that she is a loyal, loving and caring friend. But she is also guarded, she has been abandoned so many times before, that she guard her heart to protect herself from being hurt.
What she doesn’t understand is that Dom would prefer hurting himself before hurting her, how could show her a hundred different ways, and she would find a way of distancing herself, out of loyalty for her best friend (since Dom’s best friend is also her best friend ex) and to protect her heart.
By 60% of the book I started crying and didn’t stop. Dom’s relationship with his sister made me bawl my eyes out, Dom’s being a golden retriever through and through but still hiding some parts of himself were so so sad.
But as Dom said, by next august, they were together, in love, and celebrating in a snowed beach. What a beautiful ending it was for this beautiful story. I don’t even have to think for how many stars this boom deserves, 5 ⭐️no questions asked. So so excited for the next one. 🥨🏍️
Review of advance copy
Thank you for allowing me to ARC read this and enter your world Ashley Pierce!
By Next August felt a little calmer compared to book one, and for me, that was actually a positive. While I enjoyed the first book, this one worked better for my reading preferences, and I found myself liking it just a bit more overall. The story leaned less into chaos and more into emotional development, which made the journey feel more grounded and rewarding.
What really drew me in was the forced proximity between Kory and Dom. Being pushed into close quarters forced conversations, tension, and moments neither of them could avoid, and that dynamic kept me engaged. I always enjoy romances where characters are required to confront their feelings rather than run from them, and this setup delivered exactly that.
Kory wasn’t one of my favorite FMCs, if I’m being honest. She could be frustrating at times, especially with how tightly she held onto her walls. That said, she did have her quirks, and while I didn’t always connect with her choices, I understood where they came from. Her character felt realistic, even when she tested my patience.
Dom, however, was an easy win for me. He’s very much a book-boyfriend MMC — patient, steady, and emotionally aware. I really liked how he didn’t force Kory to change, but instead consistently showed up for her and gently pushed past her defenses. Watching him earn her trust little by little was one of the strongest parts of the book.
The romance itself was a slower burn that focused on trust and emotional vulnerability rather than nonstop drama. The progression felt natural.
By Next August felt a little calmer compared to book one, and for me, that was actually a positive. While I enjoyed the first book, this one worked better for my reading preferences, and I found myself liking it just a bit more overall. The story leaned less into chaos and more into emotional development, which made the journey feel more grounded and rewarding.
What really drew me in was the forced proximity between Kory and Dom. Being pushed into close quarters forced conversations, tension, and moments neither of them could avoid, and that dynamic kept me engaged. I always enjoy romances where characters are required to confront their feelings rather than run from them, and this setup delivered exactly that.
Kory wasn’t one of my favorite FMCs, if I’m being honest. She could be frustrating at times, especially with how tightly she held onto her walls. That said, she did have her quirks, and while I didn’t always connect with her choices, I understood where they came from. Her character felt realistic, even when she tested my patience.
Dom, however, was an easy win for me. He’s very much a book-boyfriend MMC — patient, steady, and emotionally aware. I really liked how he didn’t force Kory to change, but instead consistently showed up for her and gently pushed past her defenses. Watching him earn her trust little by little was one of the strongest parts of the book.
The romance itself was a slower burn that focused on trust and emotional vulnerability rather than nonstop drama. The progression felt natural.
Review of advance copy received from Author
May Contain Spoilers!!!!!!
This book was very different from Book 1. There wasn’t as much chaos—just a good, old-fashioned slow-burn romance, and honestly, it worked so well.
I completely understood Kory’s hesitation when it came to Dom. He’s Jimmy’s best friend, and she’s best friends with Autumn, so the history and emotional baggage made everything complicated. Still, I couldn’t help screaming at my Kindle for them to just be more than friends. She clearly liked him, he clearly liked her—so why settle for friends with benefits when it was obvious there was something deeper there?
The pain they both carried, especially the shared fear of everyone in their lives eventually leaving, was heartbreaking. I couldn’t imagine living with that kind of emotional weight. It really felt like they allowed the lingering drama between Autumn and Jimmy to hold them back from something that could have been so good. They stayed stuck in that space until they simply couldn’t anymore—and finally gave in.
I found myself constantly frustrated with Kory, yelling at my Kindle for her to just let Dom love her already. Then the tragedy hit, and it was absolutely heartbreaking—especially with the secret that comes out. Even though it took something so painful to get them there, I was so relieved and happy that they finally ended up together officially.
I truly hope a third book is coming, because I need Elliot’s story and his mystery girl. I’m so grateful I was chosen for this ARC and loved seeing such a different, softer, emotionally driven side of this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
After reading “Scars of August” and being royally pissed at Jimmy, I was so curious where “By Next August” would take us. Much happier ending that’s for sure! While I may have spent a good 8-10% of the book (just past half) sobbing, getting a happy ending was something that was so wonderful to see after the nonsense Jimmy put literally everyone through in book 1. We get to briefly meet Dom and Kory in the first book, and immediately get to swoon over him when this book starts. He’s the literal definition of the perfect book boyfriend but Kory can’t seem to get out of her own way. The two have to go on work trips, opening new stores, allowing them to get to know one another better, and while he’s been smitten with her since high school, she doesn’t trust him because of Jimmy. Little by little Dom is able to break down her walls, but when emotions are heightened and things are said that are out of being scared, ultimately hurting the other, it leads to a huge event in their lives that makes Kory realize she can’t keep pushing him away. It’s not what she wants, and if she continues down this self-destructive path, she may never get to tell him how she truly feels. Seeing her finally come out of her shell, breaking down the last of her walls, we get to see her fall in love and truly be happy as she deserves. Especially once she rekindles a relationship that she hasn’t had in many years. I truly love this story, and can’t wait to see who Elliots neighbor is.
Review of advance copy received from Author
By Next August
By Ashley Pierce
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
By Next August is an absolute breath of fresh air and the perfect pick-me-up for anyone who loves a heartfelt, swoon-worthy romance! Ashley Pierce has a gift for creating characters like Kory Brooks, whose stubborn independence and guarded heart made her journey toward vulnerability so relatable. Watching the chemistry between her and Dominic Rissi unfold was such a joy; Dom’s quiet charm and his unwavering persistence in winning Kory over—even when she tries to enforce a strict "no feelings" rule—kept me grinning from ear to ear. The tension during their cross-state road trip was electric, making every witty exchange feel like a step closer to them finally letting each other in.
The storyline takes an emotional turn when an unexpected tragedy lands them in the hospital, forcing long-held secrets to the surface and tearing down the walls they’ve both used for protection. It’s a beautiful exploration of love, loyalty, and closure that proves how much can change in just one year. Pierce expertly balances these heavy moments with bright, modern energy, leaving me feeling completely hopeful by the final page. If you’re looking for a sunshine-filled read that explores the beauty of second chances and the risk of opening your heart, this is definitely it!
10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.
By Ashley Pierce
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
By Next August is an absolute breath of fresh air and the perfect pick-me-up for anyone who loves a heartfelt, swoon-worthy romance! Ashley Pierce has a gift for creating characters like Kory Brooks, whose stubborn independence and guarded heart made her journey toward vulnerability so relatable. Watching the chemistry between her and Dominic Rissi unfold was such a joy; Dom’s quiet charm and his unwavering persistence in winning Kory over—even when she tries to enforce a strict "no feelings" rule—kept me grinning from ear to ear. The tension during their cross-state road trip was electric, making every witty exchange feel like a step closer to them finally letting each other in.
The storyline takes an emotional turn when an unexpected tragedy lands them in the hospital, forcing long-held secrets to the surface and tearing down the walls they’ve both used for protection. It’s a beautiful exploration of love, loyalty, and closure that proves how much can change in just one year. Pierce expertly balances these heavy moments with bright, modern energy, leaving me feeling completely hopeful by the final page. If you’re looking for a sunshine-filled read that explores the beauty of second chances and the risk of opening your heart, this is definitely it!
10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.
January 3, 2026
By Next August, release January 30th 2026!
This story follows Kory, Autumn’s best friend, and Dom, Jimmy’s best friend. Dom has always noticed Kory, since high school. But there was always something standing in the way of them trying something out.
Now they are in their 30’s and unknowingly work for the same company. Dom is a manager at one and Kory is a sales associate at the other one.
The company is expanding and the owner wants his best employees to travel and open up the stores together.
Dom and Kory get put into a forced proximity situation during their travels, which gives Dom a chance to learn more about Kory and Kory to know Dom.
Dom definitely falls hard and falls first. Kory, upsets me a bit throughout the story with her pushing. At one point I really did not like Kory at all. But then it turned around and she grew on me again. 😂 I enjoyed the banter between Kory and Dom so much. I loved the storyline and how it all played out. I loved seeing Autumn and Jimmy again. Overall it’s a 4.75 only because Kory did piss me off so bad. 😂
It was such an honor to be able to read this before its release date! Thank you so much!!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was such a beautifully done slow-burn romance. Even without having read book one yet, I was completely pulled into Kory and Dom’s story. Their shared history, emotional baggage, and fear of abandonment made their connection feel raw and real, even when it was frustrating.
Kory definitely tested my patience at times, but her growth felt earned. Dom, though? He fell first, fell hard, and completely shattered the book-boyfriend mold. His patience, understanding, and ability to truly see Kory made this story shine.
The forced proximity, great banter, and emotional depth kept me hooked. The heartbreak hit hard, but the payoff was worth it. I will be going back to read book one to get a better understanding for Autumn and Jimmy. Overall, an emotional, satisfying read and an honor to read as an ARC.
Kory definitely tested my patience at times, but her growth felt earned. Dom, though? He fell first, fell hard, and completely shattered the book-boyfriend mold. His patience, understanding, and ability to truly see Kory made this story shine.
The forced proximity, great banter, and emotional depth kept me hooked. The heartbreak hit hard, but the payoff was worth it. I will be going back to read book one to get a better understanding for Autumn and Jimmy. Overall, an emotional, satisfying read and an honor to read as an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun and sweet read. Dominic is the perfect book boyfriend. He pays attention, remembers all the little things, and always has a smile on his face even when you can feel his pain and even when he’s being pushed away. Everything he does is for Kory, and he’s just biding his time until she’s on the same page as him.
I loved their banter, and both characters showed great growth. I won’t give anything away, but I did have an idea of what the turning point for her was going to be, and even with that in the back of my mind, it hit me hard. 😭 Then there was the added twist I didn’t see coming.
This is a 1 spice level romance it was more of a sensual, open-door fade, but don’t let that fool you. You can feel the tension. Definitely worth a read.
Thank you to Ashley Pierce and Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read and leave my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Ashley for the opportunity to Beta read and ARC read this book!
I can’t even put into words how much I love this story. Does Kory get a little annoying at times? Yes but she has her reasons that she has a hard time overcoming. But Dom oh my word, he broke the book boyfriend mold, he sees her so well. Sees her fears and her dreams and will do anything to help her see them too. His patience with her is beautiful and he deserves all the praise!
I do highly recommend reading Scars of August first but I know the tropes are something people usually steer away from, normally so do I but Ashley did a great job writing it and it just makes this book so much better. It can be read on its own though if you don’t want to read SOA first.
I can’t even put into words how much I love this story. Does Kory get a little annoying at times? Yes but she has her reasons that she has a hard time overcoming. But Dom oh my word, he broke the book boyfriend mold, he sees her so well. Sees her fears and her dreams and will do anything to help her see them too. His patience with her is beautiful and he deserves all the praise!
I do highly recommend reading Scars of August first but I know the tropes are something people usually steer away from, normally so do I but Ashley did a great job writing it and it just makes this book so much better. It can be read on its own though if you don’t want to read SOA first.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 Workplace ish Romance
🖤 forced proximity
💜It’s always been you vibes
Kory and Dom might not initially be perfect for each other but as they begin to spend time together and get to really know each other you realize that they are indeed a perfect match. Kory is really standoffish and kind of blames him for his best friends’ actions towards her best friend in the past. As they get to know each other, he admits his feelings for her, and she begins to let him in but is still so very guarded until an accident makes her face the fact that she is in love with him. Can’t wait to read the next book and see who Elliot’s neighbor is.
Thank you to Ashley Pierce and Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read this ARC. These are my honest thoughts.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 Workplace ish Romance
🖤 forced proximity
💜It’s always been you vibes
Kory and Dom might not initially be perfect for each other but as they begin to spend time together and get to really know each other you realize that they are indeed a perfect match. Kory is really standoffish and kind of blames him for his best friends’ actions towards her best friend in the past. As they get to know each other, he admits his feelings for her, and she begins to let him in but is still so very guarded until an accident makes her face the fact that she is in love with him. Can’t wait to read the next book and see who Elliot’s neighbor is.
Thank you to Ashley Pierce and Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read this ARC. These are my honest thoughts.
January 19, 2026
By Next August is book 2 in the August series but can definitely be read as a standalone book.
This book was such a slow burn. However by the middle of the book I was unable to put it down and then it slowed off again towards the end.
There were times throughout the book where Kory was frustrating for not being able to see what was in front of her and Dom at times was a bit too perfect. However I really enjoyed this book, especially once it hit the road tripping parts.
Overall this is a good book for romance lovers that like minimal spice and a slow burn. I can’t wait to read the next book and find out more about Elliot hopefully.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Ashley Pierce for letting me be an arc and sending me both books!
First off By Next August make sure you have your tissues ready by mid book and that’s all I will say on that because you HAVE to read it! I absolutely loved Dom and Kory’s relationship in this book both have hand being through similar stuff but I will have to say my heart is totally with Dom! He’s such a great intuitive boyfriend.
I did love the second book better than the first but they are both great books.
First off By Next August make sure you have your tissues ready by mid book and that’s all I will say on that because you HAVE to read it! I absolutely loved Dom and Kory’s relationship in this book both have hand being through similar stuff but I will have to say my heart is totally with Dom! He’s such a great intuitive boyfriend.
I did love the second book better than the first but they are both great books.
January 22, 2026
Thank you so much for letting me read the ARC! Truly didn’t know it was part of the series so can totally be read as a standalone! This book makes me want to go back and read book 1.
Kory is so similar to me, stubborn. I love the slow burn romance in their relationship. Dom is the definition of if he wanted to he would. He kept a paper with all her favorites so he could surprise her with them. It is truly the most beautiful love story. I can’t wait for the love story in Book 3!
Kory is so similar to me, stubborn. I love the slow burn romance in their relationship. Dom is the definition of if he wanted to he would. He kept a paper with all her favorites so he could surprise her with them. It is truly the most beautiful love story. I can’t wait for the love story in Book 3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2025
Beta read: Kory and Dom!! 😍😍 Loved it! The banter had me laughing. The steamy (not explicit) scenes had me fanning myself. The twist had me sobbing. The ending was perfection.
Can’t wait to re-read the final copy when it comes out!!
Forced Proximity, dislike to love, grumpy sunshine (she’s the grump) workplace roadtrip, friends with benefits, he falls first
Can’t wait to re-read the final copy when it comes out!!
Forced Proximity, dislike to love, grumpy sunshine (she’s the grump) workplace roadtrip, friends with benefits, he falls first
October 18, 2025
I can not wait for the release- so everyone can experience this book!
The characters- so relatable and lovable.
The plot- chefs kiss- with a plot twist!
The spice- just enough but not too much!
Can’t wait to add this to my shelf!
The characters- so relatable and lovable.
The plot- chefs kiss- with a plot twist!
The spice- just enough but not too much!
Can’t wait to add this to my shelf!
January 8, 2026
I got to read this as an ARC, and I thought it was fantastic! I loved the banter between Kory and Dom. I also love when the guy falls first😉
Grateful to have been able to read this before it comes out!
Grateful to have been able to read this before it comes out!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book had me in a roller coaster of emotions and I couldn’t manage to put it down. Dom being the golden retriever boyfriend and pining for Kory had me in a chokehold. I highly recommend this book and will be looking to read other books by this author as well!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was given the opportunity to read this book as an e-arc. It’s a very fun sweet and engaging book. I love the connection that they share with each other. It’s not a super spicy book but it’s there. I would recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Great read, 4 stars because Kory got on my nerves at times🤣Dom was an absolutely amazing book boyfriend
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC READ.
The back and forth and banter between the characters was good, it was just a cute little wholesome book.
- Forced Proximity
- Friends with benefits
- Work place romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
The back and forth and banter between the characters was good, it was just a cute little wholesome book.
- Forced Proximity
- Friends with benefits
- Work place romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of this book and I quite enjoyed it. Kory is a girl who has a guarded heart and Dom is a man who is keen on taking those guards down. Such a cute love story.
January 21, 2026
ARC Review
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review incoming
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review incoming
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews