When We Were Kids

by Paige Ealy

Six years after leaving Pittsburgh, Lena returns to the place that still holds her heart. At Point Park University, she begins her art studies and hopes to reconnect with old friends—but time has reshaped them all.

Rick Evans, once the rebellious boy who became one of her closest friends, now stirs feelings Lena never expected. And Susan, the best friend she considered more as a sister, carries secrets of her own.

As Lena navigates shifting friendships, first love, and the quiet strength of her faith, she must decide what it truly means to come home—and whether the past can ever be reclaimed.

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 4, 2025

Reviews

[Ariel Yount · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is not the typical genre I read but I wanted to give it a shot and I really did enjoy it! The characters are likable and real and the struggles are relatable. My favorite part is the theme of redemption that the author weaves throughout and the focus on the importance of good community in your life.
Only 4 stars because I think like with most authors, there could still be some smoother writing in some areas, but overall a good, cozy read 😊

*disclaimer: I received an advanced reader copy for my honest thoughts, and my opinions are my own!

[Katie Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

When we were kids is a coming of age story from the POV of Lena. Moving back to where she grew up for most of her life for college Lena connects with her old friends while making new friends. This story is about discovering who she is now and how her old life connects to the new life.

While reading When we were kids, there were feel good moments and emotional moments that kept me as the reader engaged the whole time. I can tell the story isn’t over for Lena and her friends, and I can’t wait to see where the author takes these characters and their story.

[Nicole Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lena is our main gal. She is attending college for art and is excited to be returning to her childhood hometown to attend Point Park University in Pittsburgh.
Rick is our main male character and he is the definition of lost, he’s made some bad decisions.

This story follows Lena’s POV as she settles into college life, meets up with old friends and makes new friends. In this story you will follow Lena as she finds herself, acceptance, her people, and even love. We watch as she pushes herself to excel in her art and stays true to her faith through all challenges and trouble that comes her way.

This was a sweet novelle about becoming yourself and life's journey as a young adult out on her own for the first time.

[Brandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a different read for me. I really liked Lena and her story. I struggled a little with Rick, but could understand him trying to change his ways. This book has a really strong Christian element of changing and growing.

[Dog&CatMomBooksNicorette&tea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok folks!! Stop everything, grab a hot cup of tea, or hot chocolate and GET YOUR COPY OF : "When We Were Kids"!!!!! Lena is the main character and her fears, struggles, and especially her heart, along with Rick and Susan (Lena's childhood friends,) and even Lena's parents and brother will quickly become like your family!!!!!! Especially Lena, you will feel like you really know her as a best friend. Debut author Paige Early writes with Jesus' heart and captures the readers hearts from page one til the very end. This is one of my favorite books I have ever read and I highly recommend "When We Were Kids"!!!!!!!
Disclaimer: I read and am reviewing this book of my own free will, and I am not required to say anything positive or negative. I am not being compensated in any way. All opinions are my own.