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Sweet Tea & Trouble #1
Whiskey, Words and Whispers
In the delightfully nosy town of Whynot, North Carolina, secrets and sweet tea never stay cold for long. When sparks fly between two locals—one returning home and one with secrets to hide—the gossip mill isn’t the only thing turning up the heat.
Penny Pritchard thought she’d traded in small-town chatter for political banter when she left to build a big career in Washington, D.C. But when her beloved Aunt Muriel needs help running Central Café—the local hotspot for gossip, grits, and good intentions—Penny comes home with a suitcase full of high heels and denial about just how much she’s missed this place.
Enter Sam-Pete Rochelle, the easygoing bartender at Chesty’s with a smile that could make a girl forget her rules and a secret bigger than the town itself. Everyone thinks he’s just the guy pouring whiskey and fixing the jukebox. No one suspects he’s actually a wildly popular, very rich, and very anonymous author of steamy fantasy romance novels.
When the truth is revealed and it’s time for Sam to stop hiding behind his pen name, Whynot loses its collective mind. The church ladies are clutching their pearls, Floyd’s hosting a “Banned Books & Bourbon” club, and the mayor’s calling an emergency meeting about moral decay. And Penny? Penny is learning firsthand that Sam doesn’t just talk the talk where his books are concerned. Sam excels at walking the walk, if you know what I mean.
Now, Penny is torn between her two worlds. Does she go back to the career that provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose or stay in the small town with the man who writes about epic love stories and might just be her own real-life happily ever after?
A laugh-out-loud, heart-swoony friends-to-lovers romance about second chances, southern charm, and finding the courage to write your own story—one rumor at a time.
Penny Pritchard thought she’d traded in small-town chatter for political banter when she left to build a big career in Washington, D.C. But when her beloved Aunt Muriel needs help running Central Café—the local hotspot for gossip, grits, and good intentions—Penny comes home with a suitcase full of high heels and denial about just how much she’s missed this place.
Enter Sam-Pete Rochelle, the easygoing bartender at Chesty’s with a smile that could make a girl forget her rules and a secret bigger than the town itself. Everyone thinks he’s just the guy pouring whiskey and fixing the jukebox. No one suspects he’s actually a wildly popular, very rich, and very anonymous author of steamy fantasy romance novels.
When the truth is revealed and it’s time for Sam to stop hiding behind his pen name, Whynot loses its collective mind. The church ladies are clutching their pearls, Floyd’s hosting a “Banned Books & Bourbon” club, and the mayor’s calling an emergency meeting about moral decay. And Penny? Penny is learning firsthand that Sam doesn’t just talk the talk where his books are concerned. Sam excels at walking the walk, if you know what I mean.
Now, Penny is torn between her two worlds. Does she go back to the career that provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose or stay in the small town with the man who writes about epic love stories and might just be her own real-life happily ever after?
A laugh-out-loud, heart-swoony friends-to-lovers romance about second chances, southern charm, and finding the courage to write your own story—one rumor at a time.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2026
49 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Sawyer Bennett
165 books14.4k followersNew York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
February 21, 2026
I love how the story doesn’t just focus on Penny and Sam’s relationship; though that alone is incredibly inspiring. It wasn’t an instant spark or love at first sight. It was the kind of connection that had once been overlooked, never fully given the chance to grow. And now, slowly and gently, it unfolds - nurtured, explored, and allowed to bloom into something intimate, steady, and deeply supportive.
The story also beautifully captures the small town they come from - Whynot. The people, the struggles, the clash of beliefs and norms; and how they confront those conflicts and slowly learn to accept their differences. Nothing feels rushed. Every misunderstanding, every tension, is introduced and resolved at the right time.
I especially love the town of Whynot. It reminds me so much of my own small hometown before. I see familiar faces in its people; different groups with different beliefs and perspectives; and it made me reflect on how living in a small town can feel so warm and intimate, despite its complexities.
What also stood out to me in this story is how closed minds can slowly open; how new understanding, respect, and acceptance can grow if someone is willing to take that first step and truly listen.
Whynot feels like home.
And this story feels unexpectedly warm.
P.S. This time, it’s all about the story and how it made me feel.
**Received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story also beautifully captures the small town they come from - Whynot. The people, the struggles, the clash of beliefs and norms; and how they confront those conflicts and slowly learn to accept their differences. Nothing feels rushed. Every misunderstanding, every tension, is introduced and resolved at the right time.
I especially love the town of Whynot. It reminds me so much of my own small hometown before. I see familiar faces in its people; different groups with different beliefs and perspectives; and it made me reflect on how living in a small town can feel so warm and intimate, despite its complexities.
What also stood out to me in this story is how closed minds can slowly open; how new understanding, respect, and acceptance can grow if someone is willing to take that first step and truly listen.
Whynot feels like home.
And this story feels unexpectedly warm.
P.S. This time, it’s all about the story and how it made me feel.
**Received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2026
This one was cute and I really liked how the town and it's people were like a separate character, so quirky and fun. Sam was interesting, liked the secret he was hiding and how he dealt with everyone learning it. Penny was interesting too, the girl who left town to make it big. Yet when she came back to town to help her aunt, it was like she never left.
The attraction/courting between Sam and Penny was cute. I loved how honest they were with each other, especially Sam as he spilled his secret to Penny. Loved how right away she was there with supportive words and actions.
It was really fun as the town and the people learned Sam's secret, reactions on both ends of the spectrum. Good thing that those that supported him seemed to win.
The ending to this one was cute and fit the couple perfectly!
The attraction/courting between Sam and Penny was cute. I loved how honest they were with each other, especially Sam as he spilled his secret to Penny. Loved how right away she was there with supportive words and actions.
It was really fun as the town and the people learned Sam's secret, reactions on both ends of the spectrum. Good thing that those that supported him seemed to win.
The ending to this one was cute and fit the couple perfectly!
February 17, 2026
This book was such a fun small town read. I loved both of the main characters and loved what they both brought to the story. It was light in spice and heavy in charm.
Currently reading
January 22, 2026Why you will love this book:
💖Small Town
💖Friends to Lovers
💖Second Chance
💖Returning Home
💖Slow Burn
💖Found Family
💖Community Healing
💖Mutual Pining
💖Golden Retriever Hero
💖Everyday Intimacy
💖Small Town
💖Friends to Lovers
💖Second Chance
💖Returning Home
💖Slow Burn
💖Found Family
💖Community Healing
💖Mutual Pining
💖Golden Retriever Hero
💖Everyday Intimacy
February 25, 2026
This is a small town romance that’s quiet and comfortable and heartwarming.
Penny comes home to Whynot from DC and her high flying political career to care for her Aunt through an injury and keep the town’s diner going while she’s laid up. Early on her return she reconnects with Sam and a spark ignites!
As they get close, he shares his secret career with her just as he is on the threshold of coming out to the world as the romantasy author he is. Not all in the small Whynot community are supportive.
“”You know they’re not just after romance,” I say after a pause. “Half the books that get banned have nothing to do with sex. To Kill a Mockingbird, because it makes people uncomfortable. The Color Purple, because it tells the truth. The Hate U Give, because it asks hard questions. 1984, because irony is dead. I saw a list last month that had Charlotte’s Web on it – talking animals were deemed ‘inappropriate’.”
I don’t know anything about small southern US towns (Australian living in Asia) so I’m not able to judge what I thought was an extreme reaction. What I can say is I enjoyed the grace with which Sam & Penny navigated their way through the local reactions to his writing.
There’s plenty of humour and lots of swoony moments, but the time’s ticking on their romance with Penny due to go back to DC. Sam describes them as Penny having wings, having flow from their small town and with her high-flying career; him having roots, Whynot a part of who he is.
Her decision between staying or going is a tension that runs through their romance and forms the back end of the story and a fitting conclusion.
“You said something once about roots and wings.”
He nods, “Yeah.”
“Well,” I say softly, “I’ve been flying for a long time. I think it’s time to fold the wings for a while and nurture the roots – with you.”
“Penny, I’ve loved you fast from the start. I’m not slowing down now.”
This was a great read that made me think and I enjoyed immensely.
Penny comes home to Whynot from DC and her high flying political career to care for her Aunt through an injury and keep the town’s diner going while she’s laid up. Early on her return she reconnects with Sam and a spark ignites!
As they get close, he shares his secret career with her just as he is on the threshold of coming out to the world as the romantasy author he is. Not all in the small Whynot community are supportive.
“”You know they’re not just after romance,” I say after a pause. “Half the books that get banned have nothing to do with sex. To Kill a Mockingbird, because it makes people uncomfortable. The Color Purple, because it tells the truth. The Hate U Give, because it asks hard questions. 1984, because irony is dead. I saw a list last month that had Charlotte’s Web on it – talking animals were deemed ‘inappropriate’.”
I don’t know anything about small southern US towns (Australian living in Asia) so I’m not able to judge what I thought was an extreme reaction. What I can say is I enjoyed the grace with which Sam & Penny navigated their way through the local reactions to his writing.
There’s plenty of humour and lots of swoony moments, but the time’s ticking on their romance with Penny due to go back to DC. Sam describes them as Penny having wings, having flow from their small town and with her high-flying career; him having roots, Whynot a part of who he is.
Her decision between staying or going is a tension that runs through their romance and forms the back end of the story and a fitting conclusion.
“You said something once about roots and wings.”
He nods, “Yeah.”
“Well,” I say softly, “I’ve been flying for a long time. I think it’s time to fold the wings for a while and nurture the roots – with you.”
“Penny, I’ve loved you fast from the start. I’m not slowing down now.”
This was a great read that made me think and I enjoyed immensely.
February 24, 2026
***5 Stars***
And we’re back in Whynot, North Carolina! I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the inhabitants and hanging out in this small southern town on it’s first run (under the author’s pseudonym Juliette Poe) and was all kinds of excited when it was announced that we were heading back for more and I wasn’t disappointed. This book is filled will all the goodness, and some of the not so goodness, of small town life and I’m looking forward to visit again!
I adored Sam and Penny. They are both good and genuine people who love their families and the small town that they grew up in. While they knew each other growing up, they weren’t close, but being in close proximity in the small town has them colliding quite a bit and finding that they are not only attracted to each other, but enjoy spending time together and soon realize that they want more than just a short term romance.
This was an all around fun read. I was a bit concerned about remembering the various characters I’d met in the previous series, but the author did a great job at “reminding” me who they all were, also this is not a “next-gen” spinoff, we’re still in the same ‘era’ as the first series. This is a low spice romance, but there is still some heat so it’s not a totally ‘sweet’ romance but definitely not as spicy as most of the author's other books. But I loved catching up with Pap, Morri, Floyd and Larkin and am totally looking for to the next book in the series!
So, if you love small town romances, then this series is definitely one you’ll want to one click!
~ Copy provided by TAA & voluntarily reviewed ~
And we’re back in Whynot, North Carolina! I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the inhabitants and hanging out in this small southern town on it’s first run (under the author’s pseudonym Juliette Poe) and was all kinds of excited when it was announced that we were heading back for more and I wasn’t disappointed. This book is filled will all the goodness, and some of the not so goodness, of small town life and I’m looking forward to visit again!
I adored Sam and Penny. They are both good and genuine people who love their families and the small town that they grew up in. While they knew each other growing up, they weren’t close, but being in close proximity in the small town has them colliding quite a bit and finding that they are not only attracted to each other, but enjoy spending time together and soon realize that they want more than just a short term romance.
This was an all around fun read. I was a bit concerned about remembering the various characters I’d met in the previous series, but the author did a great job at “reminding” me who they all were, also this is not a “next-gen” spinoff, we’re still in the same ‘era’ as the first series. This is a low spice romance, but there is still some heat so it’s not a totally ‘sweet’ romance but definitely not as spicy as most of the author's other books. But I loved catching up with Pap, Morri, Floyd and Larkin and am totally looking for to the next book in the series!
So, if you love small town romances, then this series is definitely one you’ll want to one click!
~ Copy provided by TAA & voluntarily reviewed ~
Review of advance copy
2.5 ⭐️
Whiskey, Words and Whispers is a small-town, friends-to-lovers romance about Penny returning home to run her aunt’s café after an injury. While there, she reconnects with Sam and they finally begin exploring the feelings they’ve long ignored. As Penny wrestles with choosing between the life she built away from home and the possibility of love, Sam is navigating unexpected fame after revealing he’s a successful author.
While the story had a sweet premise and charming small-town vibe, it ended up being an average read for me. There was a lot happening, which made it harder to fully connect with the characters, and the central conflict felt understated without a strong climax to anchor the romance. I did, however, appreciate the author addressing the topic of book bans and censorship—it added an interesting and meaningful layer to the story.
Whiskey, Words and Whispers is a small-town, friends-to-lovers romance about Penny returning home to run her aunt’s café after an injury. While there, she reconnects with Sam and they finally begin exploring the feelings they’ve long ignored. As Penny wrestles with choosing between the life she built away from home and the possibility of love, Sam is navigating unexpected fame after revealing he’s a successful author.
While the story had a sweet premise and charming small-town vibe, it ended up being an average read for me. There was a lot happening, which made it harder to fully connect with the characters, and the central conflict felt understated without a strong climax to anchor the romance. I did, however, appreciate the author addressing the topic of book bans and censorship—it added an interesting and meaningful layer to the story.
February 9, 2026
There’s something about a sweet, wholesome, small town romance that just makes me happy. Maybe because I’m a homebody or maybe because it feels more authentic than some other romances but it brings a smile to my face.
This is a quick story about two childhood friends now finding love together after growing up. For Sam his crush and affection for Penny over the years was just simmering in the background so when she’s home to help her aunt run the local cafe, it heats up fast.
I loved how they were supportive of each other and only wanted the other to achieve their career goals. I also appreciate that there wasn’t any made up angst whilst they navigated distance and a relationship. And another reason why I enjoyed this book so much was the townspeople of Whynot and revisiting those characters from a previous series (one not to miss either). It was a delight to catch up with the gang and see where they are up to in the present day. There was also a hint as to what was coming next with book two, and I think it’s going to be fabulous as well.
This is a quick story about two childhood friends now finding love together after growing up. For Sam his crush and affection for Penny over the years was just simmering in the background so when she’s home to help her aunt run the local cafe, it heats up fast.
I loved how they were supportive of each other and only wanted the other to achieve their career goals. I also appreciate that there wasn’t any made up angst whilst they navigated distance and a relationship. And another reason why I enjoyed this book so much was the townspeople of Whynot and revisiting those characters from a previous series (one not to miss either). It was a delight to catch up with the gang and see where they are up to in the present day. There was also a hint as to what was coming next with book two, and I think it’s going to be fabulous as well.
February 24, 2026
Whiskey, Words, and Whispers is the first book in Ms Bennett's latest series, Sweet Tea & Trouble. It's set in the southern small town of Whynot, North Carolina and features two Whynot protagonists: Sam Rochelle, the small town guy who never left and Penny Prichard, who went to DC and never looked back...until her aunt needed her.
WWW has all the small town vibes any reader could want--the gossip flies fast and loose, and everyone is in everyone else's business 24/7. If you love the nosy neighbor trope and feisty senior citizens, you're in luck here!
Sam and Penny knew each other growing up but never really connected--she's two years older and left town as soon as she could--but once they run into each other back in Whynot they have an immediate attraction and pretty much start a relationship right from there. Not a fan of the third act breakup? No worries, their relationship is pretty much smooth sailing from start to finish. (Yes, there is the issue of geography, but honestly? They barely even stress out about it and it gets resolved in the end with very little drama.)
Truly, I would have liked a bit more substance to their relationship myself. It was all very...even.
The bulk of the drama--such as it is--comes from a book banning issue in the town that becomes personal to our couple, especially Sam. I appreciated that discussion, since it's one that is becoming more and more of an issue these days. Even that problem, though, is resolved with relatively no fuss--which, as a former teacher and current librarian, I wish it were that easy IRL!
In the end, this is a promising start to a new series and I can see how it might appeal to many readers. It didn't *quite* work for me--the premise of the second book sounds a lot more up my alley, with MCs who are at odds with each other from the jump--but it did keep me busy on (yet another) dreary winter day.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars / B-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
WWW has all the small town vibes any reader could want--the gossip flies fast and loose, and everyone is in everyone else's business 24/7. If you love the nosy neighbor trope and feisty senior citizens, you're in luck here!
Sam and Penny knew each other growing up but never really connected--she's two years older and left town as soon as she could--but once they run into each other back in Whynot they have an immediate attraction and pretty much start a relationship right from there. Not a fan of the third act breakup? No worries, their relationship is pretty much smooth sailing from start to finish. (Yes, there is the issue of geography, but honestly? They barely even stress out about it and it gets resolved in the end with very little drama.)
Truly, I would have liked a bit more substance to their relationship myself. It was all very...even.
The bulk of the drama--such as it is--comes from a book banning issue in the town that becomes personal to our couple, especially Sam. I appreciated that discussion, since it's one that is becoming more and more of an issue these days. Even that problem, though, is resolved with relatively no fuss--which, as a former teacher and current librarian, I wish it were that easy IRL!
In the end, this is a promising start to a new series and I can see how it might appeal to many readers. It didn't *quite* work for me--the premise of the second book sounds a lot more up my alley, with MCs who are at odds with each other from the jump--but it did keep me busy on (yet another) dreary winter day.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars / B-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 25, 2026
Loved this book!
Penny has just returned to her little hometown called, “Whynot” in North Carolina. After graduating from High School, Penny had big plans to leave this town behind and never come back. She is now a very successful lobbyist advocating for small farmers and rural communities on Capital Hill in Washington, D.C., but after her Aunt Millie breaks her hip, Penny has flown back to Whynot to see how her aunt is doing. Her aunt owns a restaurant in town called Central Cafe, which is famous for its freshly-baked southern biscuits and other home cooked goodies. Since Millie has been out of commission, she’s had to shut the restaurant down until she’s feeling well enough to run it again properly. Penny knows all the ins & outs of the Central Cafe as she spent much of her childhood hanging out there and which eventually led to waitressing during her summers and college breaks. She tells her aunt she plans on taking over and running the Cafe until Millie is feeling up to coming back and taking over again.
Sam Rochelle went to school with Penny and is currently a part-time bartender in town. He’s surprised to see Penny’s returned, but she’s definitely caught his eye. He visits her while she’s busy getting the Central Cafe ready to reopen. They talk and a few sparks start going off for each of them. They slowly start reconnecting which is really nice for both of them. Sam, however, has a rather LARGE secret that he’s kept to himself for quite awhile because he just knows that a lot of the people in this small town, including his parents, will not approve of what it is. His question to himself is if he can trust this secret with Penny.
This book not only takes you on Penny’s and Sam’s journey, but shows you what life is like in a small, quiet town, where everyone knows everyone & everything that happens in it. You get to meet a lot of the town “regulars”in this story, and some of the secondary characters are a hoot and a half!!
It’s really a great read and I cannot wait to revisit the town of Whatnot!!!! ❤️
Penny has just returned to her little hometown called, “Whynot” in North Carolina. After graduating from High School, Penny had big plans to leave this town behind and never come back. She is now a very successful lobbyist advocating for small farmers and rural communities on Capital Hill in Washington, D.C., but after her Aunt Millie breaks her hip, Penny has flown back to Whynot to see how her aunt is doing. Her aunt owns a restaurant in town called Central Cafe, which is famous for its freshly-baked southern biscuits and other home cooked goodies. Since Millie has been out of commission, she’s had to shut the restaurant down until she’s feeling well enough to run it again properly. Penny knows all the ins & outs of the Central Cafe as she spent much of her childhood hanging out there and which eventually led to waitressing during her summers and college breaks. She tells her aunt she plans on taking over and running the Cafe until Millie is feeling up to coming back and taking over again.
Sam Rochelle went to school with Penny and is currently a part-time bartender in town. He’s surprised to see Penny’s returned, but she’s definitely caught his eye. He visits her while she’s busy getting the Central Cafe ready to reopen. They talk and a few sparks start going off for each of them. They slowly start reconnecting which is really nice for both of them. Sam, however, has a rather LARGE secret that he’s kept to himself for quite awhile because he just knows that a lot of the people in this small town, including his parents, will not approve of what it is. His question to himself is if he can trust this secret with Penny.
This book not only takes you on Penny’s and Sam’s journey, but shows you what life is like in a small, quiet town, where everyone knows everyone & everything that happens in it. You get to meet a lot of the town “regulars”in this story, and some of the secondary characters are a hoot and a half!!
It’s really a great read and I cannot wait to revisit the town of Whatnot!!!! ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
In the delightfully nosy town of Whynot, North Carolina, secrets and sweet tea never stay cold for long. When sparks fly between two locals—one returning home and one with secrets to hide—the gossip mill isn’t the only thing turning up the heat.
Penny Pritchard thought she’d traded in small-town chatter for political banter when she left to build a big career in Washington, D.C. But when her beloved Aunt Muriel needs help running Central Café—the local hotspot for gossip, grits, and good intentions—Penny comes home with a suitcase full of high heels and denial about just how much she’s missed this place.
Enter Sam-Pete Rochelle, the easygoing bartender at Chesty’s with a smile that could make a girl forget her rules and a secret bigger than the town itself. Everyone thinks he’s just the guy pouring whiskey and fixing the jukebox. No one suspects he’s actually a wildly popular, very rich, and very anonymous author of steamy fantasy romance novels.
When the truth is revealed and it’s time for Sam to stop hiding behind his pen name, Whynot loses its collective mind. The church ladies are clutching their pearls, Floyd’s hosting a “Banned Books & Bourbon” club, and the mayor’s calling an emergency meeting about moral decay. And Penny? Penny is learning firsthand that Sam doesn’t just talk the talk where his books are concerned. Sam excels at walking the walk, if you know what I mean.
At the heart of it all is Penny, caught between the life she worked so hard to build and a man who doesn’t just write epic love stories—he lives them. Warm, witty, and full of heart (with just the right amount of steam), this story is a delightful reminder that sometimes the best happily-ever-afters are found right where you started.
Penny Pritchard thought she’d traded in small-town chatter for political banter when she left to build a big career in Washington, D.C. But when her beloved Aunt Muriel needs help running Central Café—the local hotspot for gossip, grits, and good intentions—Penny comes home with a suitcase full of high heels and denial about just how much she’s missed this place.
Enter Sam-Pete Rochelle, the easygoing bartender at Chesty’s with a smile that could make a girl forget her rules and a secret bigger than the town itself. Everyone thinks he’s just the guy pouring whiskey and fixing the jukebox. No one suspects he’s actually a wildly popular, very rich, and very anonymous author of steamy fantasy romance novels.
When the truth is revealed and it’s time for Sam to stop hiding behind his pen name, Whynot loses its collective mind. The church ladies are clutching their pearls, Floyd’s hosting a “Banned Books & Bourbon” club, and the mayor’s calling an emergency meeting about moral decay. And Penny? Penny is learning firsthand that Sam doesn’t just talk the talk where his books are concerned. Sam excels at walking the walk, if you know what I mean.
At the heart of it all is Penny, caught between the life she worked so hard to build and a man who doesn’t just write epic love stories—he lives them. Warm, witty, and full of heart (with just the right amount of steam), this story is a delightful reminder that sometimes the best happily-ever-afters are found right where you started.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Whiskey, Words and Whispers is the first book in Sawyer Bennett's new Sweet Tea & Trouble series. It's been a while since we have been to Whynot, North Carolina, but it was fun to revisit the town!
Penny Pritchard left her hometown of Whynot years before to follow her dreams to Washington, DC where she works in the political arena. When her beloved aunt breaks a hip, she heads back to help her out for a bit, but what started as a short stay gets extended when she learns her aunt may lose her diner if it doesn't get back operational.
Sam-Pete Rochelle has always loved his hometown and he has made his life there by working behind the bar at Chesty's and helping out around town where he can. What Sam hasn't shared is that he has had another job for many years; he's a very popular and very anonymous fantasy romance author.
Penny and Sam reconnect and sparks fly between them, but Sam also feels comfortable enough with her to share the side of him he has shared with no other person. He knows that things in his life could drastically change if he decides to reveal he is behind the very successful novels, but Penny is right there supporting him and suggesting he should reveal his true identity. Will he be able to handle all that comes with his revelation and also, will he and Penny connect beyond being friends?
This was a wonderful story and I really enjoyed the relationship between Sam and Penny and how it all unfolded. The challenges they had to face seemed very realistic and I liked how they worked through them together. I'm already looking forward to what is to come in this series!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Penny Pritchard left her hometown of Whynot years before to follow her dreams to Washington, DC where she works in the political arena. When her beloved aunt breaks a hip, she heads back to help her out for a bit, but what started as a short stay gets extended when she learns her aunt may lose her diner if it doesn't get back operational.
Sam-Pete Rochelle has always loved his hometown and he has made his life there by working behind the bar at Chesty's and helping out around town where he can. What Sam hasn't shared is that he has had another job for many years; he's a very popular and very anonymous fantasy romance author.
Penny and Sam reconnect and sparks fly between them, but Sam also feels comfortable enough with her to share the side of him he has shared with no other person. He knows that things in his life could drastically change if he decides to reveal he is behind the very successful novels, but Penny is right there supporting him and suggesting he should reveal his true identity. Will he be able to handle all that comes with his revelation and also, will he and Penny connect beyond being friends?
This was a wonderful story and I really enjoyed the relationship between Sam and Penny and how it all unfolded. The challenges they had to face seemed very realistic and I liked how they worked through them together. I'm already looking forward to what is to come in this series!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
**Secret Romance!**
*Whiskey, Words and Whispers* is the first book in the Sweet Tea & Trouble series. It tells the story of Sam and Penny, a slow-burning friends-to-lovers romance set in their small town. Penny returns home when her favorite aunt falls and needs her to run the café during her recovery. Meanwhile, local boy Sam works as a bartender and also harbors a significant secret from their small community.
As Penny and Sam reconnect and get to know each other better, the attraction and chemistry between them become undeniable, and things start to heat up. Sam learns to trust Penny as he reveals his big secret: he writes under a pen name and is a very successful fantasy romance author. However, once he discloses his true identity to her, his world begins to change. He must prepare for backlash in his small town, which may not align with the themes of his novels. Through it all, Penny stands by him, supporting him as his biggest fan.
Sawyer has done a fantastic job developing the characters of Sam and Penny as they navigate their feelings for one another and the careers they have worked so hard for. They also face difficult decisions about how to move forward together in a way that is best for them.
The story captures the essence of small-town living, where you always have your community to support you, vs. the community that gossips and the ladies who grab their pearl necklaces. There are both good and bad traits about living in a small town, and that’s what makes it special.
Sawyer beautifully conveys all of this in Sam and Penny’s journey to their happily ever after, making it a heartfelt read that leaves readers wanting more from this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*Whiskey, Words and Whispers* is the first book in the Sweet Tea & Trouble series. It tells the story of Sam and Penny, a slow-burning friends-to-lovers romance set in their small town. Penny returns home when her favorite aunt falls and needs her to run the café during her recovery. Meanwhile, local boy Sam works as a bartender and also harbors a significant secret from their small community.
As Penny and Sam reconnect and get to know each other better, the attraction and chemistry between them become undeniable, and things start to heat up. Sam learns to trust Penny as he reveals his big secret: he writes under a pen name and is a very successful fantasy romance author. However, once he discloses his true identity to her, his world begins to change. He must prepare for backlash in his small town, which may not align with the themes of his novels. Through it all, Penny stands by him, supporting him as his biggest fan.
Sawyer has done a fantastic job developing the characters of Sam and Penny as they navigate their feelings for one another and the careers they have worked so hard for. They also face difficult decisions about how to move forward together in a way that is best for them.
The story captures the essence of small-town living, where you always have your community to support you, vs. the community that gossips and the ladies who grab their pearl necklaces. There are both good and bad traits about living in a small town, and that’s what makes it special.
Sawyer beautifully conveys all of this in Sam and Penny’s journey to their happily ever after, making it a heartfelt read that leaves readers wanting more from this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Entertaining small town romance
Sawyer Bennett's new series Sweet Tea & Trouble sees a return to Whynot, North Carolina, the conservative small town where faith is strong, gossip is rampant, and friendships are forever. WHISKEY, WORDS & WHISPERS is a light-hearted, entertaining read which had me smiling constantly.
Sam-Pete Rochelle has always lived in Whynot, he loves his life in the wmall town. He's content working as a bartender at Chesty's and helping members of his community. Sam has a closely guarded secret, he writes extremely popular fantasy romance under a pen name, and his agent believes now is the time for him to reveal his secret. What will Sam do? Penny Pritchard has returned home from her life in Washington DC to help her aunt out, who has broken her hip, in her bakery. It was only meant to be a short stay but when she learns the bakery is under threat of closure she extends her stay.
Sam is thrilled when Penny returns to Whynot, she's the high school crush he never pursued, no way is he going to let this second chance slip by. While their chemistry sizzles, it is the growing connection between them which endear them to my heart. They were there to encourage and support each other in the decisions which needed to be made, they found comfort in each others arms, but most of all they recognised in their hearts they were made for each other.
WHISKEY, WORDS & WHISPERS was a wonderful small town read with terrific characters and a thoroughly engaging storyline. The more I read, the more I fell for the residents of this small town and I can't wait for more.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Sawyer Bennett's new series Sweet Tea & Trouble sees a return to Whynot, North Carolina, the conservative small town where faith is strong, gossip is rampant, and friendships are forever. WHISKEY, WORDS & WHISPERS is a light-hearted, entertaining read which had me smiling constantly.
Sam-Pete Rochelle has always lived in Whynot, he loves his life in the wmall town. He's content working as a bartender at Chesty's and helping members of his community. Sam has a closely guarded secret, he writes extremely popular fantasy romance under a pen name, and his agent believes now is the time for him to reveal his secret. What will Sam do? Penny Pritchard has returned home from her life in Washington DC to help her aunt out, who has broken her hip, in her bakery. It was only meant to be a short stay but when she learns the bakery is under threat of closure she extends her stay.
Sam is thrilled when Penny returns to Whynot, she's the high school crush he never pursued, no way is he going to let this second chance slip by. While their chemistry sizzles, it is the growing connection between them which endear them to my heart. They were there to encourage and support each other in the decisions which needed to be made, they found comfort in each others arms, but most of all they recognised in their hearts they were made for each other.
WHISKEY, WORDS & WHISPERS was a wonderful small town read with terrific characters and a thoroughly engaging storyline. The more I read, the more I fell for the residents of this small town and I can't wait for more.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Review of advance copy received from Author
Whiskey, Words and Whispers is the first book in the Sweet Tea & Trouble series.
What a fantastic read! I could sit for hours and spill the tea about everything I loved about this book. The main characters…the town of Whynot, North Carolina and its small town gossip mill that flows through the tables and the customers at Central Cafe. The amazing community support and love for their own, as well as the incredible side characters that made all of it perfection.
But this is Penny Pritchard and Sam-Pete Rochelle’s small-town, slow-burn romance journey to a happily ever after, and I was utterly captivated from the very beginning. I couldn’t help but swoon and cheer them on throughout the entire story!
Penny is back in Whynot to take care of her aunt’s café while she continues to recovers from her surgery and the last thing she’s looking for is a relationship…after all her life and her great job that she loves is in DC.
Sam loves his hometown and has been there forever except for the two years he was gone for college. He bartends at the bar in town, but that’s not all he does. He has a big secret career that no one knows about. But it doesn’t take him long before he reveals all to his new friend who has stolen his heart.
Sam and Penny instantly connect upon her return to town, igniting a truly remarkable bond between them. I absolutely adore their chemistry and their supportive and caring relationship they share.
This was a phenomenal read and I cannot wait to revisit Whynot, North Carolina and its community for what I hope are many more books in this Author’s Sweet Tea & Trouble series in the near future
I received an early copy from the author and this is my honest review.
What a fantastic read! I could sit for hours and spill the tea about everything I loved about this book. The main characters…the town of Whynot, North Carolina and its small town gossip mill that flows through the tables and the customers at Central Cafe. The amazing community support and love for their own, as well as the incredible side characters that made all of it perfection.
But this is Penny Pritchard and Sam-Pete Rochelle’s small-town, slow-burn romance journey to a happily ever after, and I was utterly captivated from the very beginning. I couldn’t help but swoon and cheer them on throughout the entire story!
Penny is back in Whynot to take care of her aunt’s café while she continues to recovers from her surgery and the last thing she’s looking for is a relationship…after all her life and her great job that she loves is in DC.
Sam loves his hometown and has been there forever except for the two years he was gone for college. He bartends at the bar in town, but that’s not all he does. He has a big secret career that no one knows about. But it doesn’t take him long before he reveals all to his new friend who has stolen his heart.
Sam and Penny instantly connect upon her return to town, igniting a truly remarkable bond between them. I absolutely adore their chemistry and their supportive and caring relationship they share.
This was a phenomenal read and I cannot wait to revisit Whynot, North Carolina and its community for what I hope are many more books in this Author’s Sweet Tea & Trouble series in the near future
I received an early copy from the author and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Sawyer Bennett is going back to her small town era and this was a fun story to read. “Whiskey, Words and Whispers” is a swoony, sweet and fun small town romance that was a fun start to this new series.
Penny is back in her small town of Whynot, South Carolina to help run her beloved Aunt’s cafe. She might have traded in the small town life for city life but being back home made her realize how much she missed it. And she is surprised to see that Sam-Pete Rochelle is back home since she last knew that he was attending UNC. On the outside, Sam is a bartender just slinging whiskey and enjoying small town life. But no one knows that he is a successful fantasy romance author and has been writing under pen name. But it’s time for the truth to come out and the small town is clutching their pearls.
I’ve known Sawyer Bennett for her hockey romances and I loved that she switched it up for this small town romance. Penny is kind, smart and I loved that she came back home to help her Aunt. She was living in a different, high stress world and coming back to Whynot is exactly what she needed. Sam is swoony, caring and once we found out his real occupation, I was shocked. I think that it’s great that a man was writing romance and that he was successful at it. I totally understood why he kept it a secret but I’m glad Penny encouraged him to let the cat out of the bag. These two started out as friends and they progressed naturally into something more, it never felt forced. Most of the town was supportive of Sam right away even though there was some push back from the initial shock. Sam and Penny were a sweet couple and I enjoyed their story.
Penny is back in her small town of Whynot, South Carolina to help run her beloved Aunt’s cafe. She might have traded in the small town life for city life but being back home made her realize how much she missed it. And she is surprised to see that Sam-Pete Rochelle is back home since she last knew that he was attending UNC. On the outside, Sam is a bartender just slinging whiskey and enjoying small town life. But no one knows that he is a successful fantasy romance author and has been writing under pen name. But it’s time for the truth to come out and the small town is clutching their pearls.
I’ve known Sawyer Bennett for her hockey romances and I loved that she switched it up for this small town romance. Penny is kind, smart and I loved that she came back home to help her Aunt. She was living in a different, high stress world and coming back to Whynot is exactly what she needed. Sam is swoony, caring and once we found out his real occupation, I was shocked. I think that it’s great that a man was writing romance and that he was successful at it. I totally understood why he kept it a secret but I’m glad Penny encouraged him to let the cat out of the bag. These two started out as friends and they progressed naturally into something more, it never felt forced. Most of the town was supportive of Sam right away even though there was some push back from the initial shock. Sam and Penny were a sweet couple and I enjoyed their story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Penny Pritchard grew up in Whynot, NC the cute little southern town where everyone knows everyone's business. Penny had dreams of moving on and got a job in Washington D.C. Now Penny finds herself back in Whynot after her Aunt Muriel's injury to help run Central Cafe. She quickly reunites with Sam-Pete Rochelle. Sam was two years younger than Penny in school but she always found him charming.
After spending some time with Sam, Penny realizes that she really likes him and wants to spend more time with him. Of course the more time these two spend together, the quicker the sparks begin to ignite. Before Penny realizes it she is spending all of her free time with Sam. As Sam and Penny continue to grow closer, he exposes a long hidden secret to her.....he is an author of steamy fantasy romance books and has done very well for himself. Even his own parents don't know anything about his real job.
When the secret of Sam's writing career becomes known, life has a funny way of dealing with the fall out. There are people who love the idea and people who hate the idea of "those" type of books being written in their own little city. At the same time, Penny is finding herself missing Whynot and debating if she really wants to go back to Washington D.C. In the end, everything falls into place and Sam and Penny find themselves in their very own happy ever after.
I just adored this new addition to the Whynot series. This story added a little steam compared to the previous books but it only made the story better. I just adored Sam's secret. I really enjoyed the books he had written! ;) Overall this was such a fun book and I just adored all the characters.
After spending some time with Sam, Penny realizes that she really likes him and wants to spend more time with him. Of course the more time these two spend together, the quicker the sparks begin to ignite. Before Penny realizes it she is spending all of her free time with Sam. As Sam and Penny continue to grow closer, he exposes a long hidden secret to her.....he is an author of steamy fantasy romance books and has done very well for himself. Even his own parents don't know anything about his real job.
When the secret of Sam's writing career becomes known, life has a funny way of dealing with the fall out. There are people who love the idea and people who hate the idea of "those" type of books being written in their own little city. At the same time, Penny is finding herself missing Whynot and debating if she really wants to go back to Washington D.C. In the end, everything falls into place and Sam and Penny find themselves in their very own happy ever after.
I just adored this new addition to the Whynot series. This story added a little steam compared to the previous books but it only made the story better. I just adored Sam's secret. I really enjoyed the books he had written! ;) Overall this was such a fun book and I just adored all the characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Favorite Quotes:
Honey, Whynot’s got three reliable sources of information— Facebook, the prayer chain, and the gossip mill.
Whynot’s gossip network runs faster than broadband and twice as loud. If NASA ever needs to transmit data to Mars, they should just hire the men and women of this town and give them a group text.
Even though we’re sitting in the same room, she’d say… ‘Roy… tell your son that I am thoroughly embarrassed by this.’ And then my dad would sigh and turn to me sitting two feet away, and say, ‘Son… your mom is thoroughly embarrassed by this.’
You can’t call love sinful when you’ve been praying to find it since 1974, Lorraine.
That boy’s smile could melt the butter clean off a biscuit.
Love’s like humidity— you don’t notice it till it’s already in your hair.
My Review:
This story was good fun from start to finish. Sawyer Bennett is a crafty scribbler and has conjured a rib-tickling tale bursting with pleasantly enjoyable and colorful wit that kept a delighted, highly amused, and gratified smirk on my face throughout perusal. It was a total treat to read an engaging and well-written story where the characters are thoughtful, supportive, and kind towards each other, and aren’t constantly in conflict.
Written in my favorite dual POV, the banter was clever, razor-sharp, and intelligently perceptive, flowing from dynamic and vibrant characters with uniquely quirky and intriguing descriptions. The main characters were independent, strong, and the type of people I’d love to know and hang with daily. I need more of this in my life and will be haunting Ms. Bennett’s listings so I don’t miss out on future volumes.
Honey, Whynot’s got three reliable sources of information— Facebook, the prayer chain, and the gossip mill.
Whynot’s gossip network runs faster than broadband and twice as loud. If NASA ever needs to transmit data to Mars, they should just hire the men and women of this town and give them a group text.
Even though we’re sitting in the same room, she’d say… ‘Roy… tell your son that I am thoroughly embarrassed by this.’ And then my dad would sigh and turn to me sitting two feet away, and say, ‘Son… your mom is thoroughly embarrassed by this.’
You can’t call love sinful when you’ve been praying to find it since 1974, Lorraine.
That boy’s smile could melt the butter clean off a biscuit.
Love’s like humidity— you don’t notice it till it’s already in your hair.
My Review:
This story was good fun from start to finish. Sawyer Bennett is a crafty scribbler and has conjured a rib-tickling tale bursting with pleasantly enjoyable and colorful wit that kept a delighted, highly amused, and gratified smirk on my face throughout perusal. It was a total treat to read an engaging and well-written story where the characters are thoughtful, supportive, and kind towards each other, and aren’t constantly in conflict.
Written in my favorite dual POV, the banter was clever, razor-sharp, and intelligently perceptive, flowing from dynamic and vibrant characters with uniquely quirky and intriguing descriptions. The main characters were independent, strong, and the type of people I’d love to know and hang with daily. I need more of this in my life and will be haunting Ms. Bennett’s listings so I don’t miss out on future volumes.
Review of advance copy
I love a good small town romance with quirky and interesting characters who know everything that is going on, and offer both support and criticism in equal measure. This book fits that description. Penny and Sam didn’t really connect when they were teenagers and she has been away from their small home town for years. When she comes to town to keep her Aunt Muriel’s café afloat while she recovers from a broken hip, Penny realizes that she missed her home town and the simple lifestyle while she was away, even though she couldn’t wait to leave it as a teenager. Sam is happy to strike up a conversation and get to know her better. They both feel the connection, the attraction and the chemistry between them and decide to ignore the fact that her stay is temporary and become lovers.
They feel safe and seen with each other, so much so that Sam tells Penny a secret that no one else knows. Her support is invaluable and goes a long way into him finally accepting that it is time to step out of the shadows and take his career to the next level. Revealing the man behind the successful romance fantasy novels divides the town into those who support him and those that don’t due to some negative assumptions about what he write. Penny is by his side, offering unwavering support and encouragement as he weathers the chaos. He offers Penny the same support when her dream job is offered to her, even though it will take her away from him. They both resolve to make a long distance relationship work, hoping that love will find a way to make it last.
I am happy to recommend this captivating book.
They feel safe and seen with each other, so much so that Sam tells Penny a secret that no one else knows. Her support is invaluable and goes a long way into him finally accepting that it is time to step out of the shadows and take his career to the next level. Revealing the man behind the successful romance fantasy novels divides the town into those who support him and those that don’t due to some negative assumptions about what he write. Penny is by his side, offering unwavering support and encouragement as he weathers the chaos. He offers Penny the same support when her dream job is offered to her, even though it will take her away from him. They both resolve to make a long distance relationship work, hoping that love will find a way to make it last.
I am happy to recommend this captivating book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Whiskey Words and Whispers (Sweet Tea & Trouble Book 1) is another warm, heartfelt addition to Sawyer Bennett’s small town romance universe, and Sam and Penny’s story hits all the right emotional notes.
Penny returns to WhyNot after her aunt breaks her hip, stepping in to run the bakery so her aunt doesn’t lose the shop. It’s meant to be temporary, but the town has a way of pulling her back in - especially when she reconnects with Sam, an old friend with a quiet charm and a secret he’s been guarding closely. Sam is actually a successful romance author, something he’s kept under wraps in a conservative town that doesn’t exactly celebrate that kind of creativity. Watching him wrestle with when—and how—to reveal the truth adds a compelling layer to his character.
Their chemistry is sweet and steady, but what really elevates the story is how Bennett uses their relationship to explore bigger themes. The book doesn’t shy away from social commentary, especially around banned books and the pressure to conform in small communities. Sam’s struggle to own his identity as a writer becomes a thoughtful reflection on who gets to tell stories and whose voices are deemed “acceptable.”
Penny’s resilience, Sam’s vulnerability, and the cozy charm of WhyNot make this a satisfying, emotionally rich read. If you enjoy small town romances with depth, heart, and a touch of social relevance, this one is worth picking up.
Penny returns to WhyNot after her aunt breaks her hip, stepping in to run the bakery so her aunt doesn’t lose the shop. It’s meant to be temporary, but the town has a way of pulling her back in - especially when she reconnects with Sam, an old friend with a quiet charm and a secret he’s been guarding closely. Sam is actually a successful romance author, something he’s kept under wraps in a conservative town that doesn’t exactly celebrate that kind of creativity. Watching him wrestle with when—and how—to reveal the truth adds a compelling layer to his character.
Their chemistry is sweet and steady, but what really elevates the story is how Bennett uses their relationship to explore bigger themes. The book doesn’t shy away from social commentary, especially around banned books and the pressure to conform in small communities. Sam’s struggle to own his identity as a writer becomes a thoughtful reflection on who gets to tell stories and whose voices are deemed “acceptable.”
Penny’s resilience, Sam’s vulnerability, and the cozy charm of WhyNot make this a satisfying, emotionally rich read. If you enjoy small town romances with depth, heart, and a touch of social relevance, this one is worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Whiskey, Words, and Whispers by Sawyer Bennett is an entertaining, heartwarming small-town romance that balances charm, emotion, and just the right amount of humor.
Set in Whynot, a town where faith, family, and gossip all run deep, the story immediately pulls you into a close-knit community that feels alive and wonderfully nosy. Sam has lived in Whynot his entire life, working at the local bar while quietly carrying a secret life he keeps close to the vest. Penny returns home to help her aunt, and what begins as an easy friendship between her and Sam slowly and naturally grows into something more meaningful.
Sam and Penny have fantastic rapport and undeniable chemistry, but what truly stood out to me was the emotional connection between them. I loved how Sam learns to confide in Penny, and how she consistently shows up for him with understanding and support. Their relationship feels grounded, sincere, and earned.
Beyond the central romance, the cast of side characters adds so much color and fun to the story. From book club shenanigans to church-going ladies clutching their pearls over romance novels, the town dynamics are endlessly entertaining and add a layer of warmth and humor throughout.
Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable small-town romance filled with heart, community, and quiet emotional depth. A cozy, feel-good read that leaves you smiling. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. 4.5 stars.
Set in Whynot, a town where faith, family, and gossip all run deep, the story immediately pulls you into a close-knit community that feels alive and wonderfully nosy. Sam has lived in Whynot his entire life, working at the local bar while quietly carrying a secret life he keeps close to the vest. Penny returns home to help her aunt, and what begins as an easy friendship between her and Sam slowly and naturally grows into something more meaningful.
Sam and Penny have fantastic rapport and undeniable chemistry, but what truly stood out to me was the emotional connection between them. I loved how Sam learns to confide in Penny, and how she consistently shows up for him with understanding and support. Their relationship feels grounded, sincere, and earned.
Beyond the central romance, the cast of side characters adds so much color and fun to the story. From book club shenanigans to church-going ladies clutching their pearls over romance novels, the town dynamics are endlessly entertaining and add a layer of warmth and humor throughout.
Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable small-town romance filled with heart, community, and quiet emotional depth. A cozy, feel-good read that leaves you smiling. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. 4.5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Whynot is a small southern town in North Carolina. There are some real characters that made me laugh, some that made me mad, and some that showed so much love. Penny’s aunt had always been there for her when she was growing up, so when her aunt fell and couldn’t keep her cafe going, Penny took a leave of absence from her Washington, DC job to come back to town to help her. It is funny how when you are in high school age can make a difference if you will date someone. I love that when you are out in the world you mature and age isn’t that big of deal. Sam had a crush on Penny when they were in school, but she was two years older. Now that the two are older they each see how the other has matured into interesting people who are also good looking. I enjoyed watching the two get to know another again, and Sam to feel good about Penny to tell her a large secret he had kept for a few years. I was glad he told her about his writing books and how popular they were. When Sam’s agent encouraged him to let the world know who he is, in Whynot the town was divided and they weren’t shy about saying how they felt! I was glad Sam had Penny to encourage him and give him the courage to face his fans. I loved watching the fallout of Sam coming out that he was an author along with San and Penny falling love. I encourage you to read the book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this small-town, writer x lobbyist, returning-home (fmc) + coming out with true self (mmc) romance. It took on serious topics as well (book banning, small-town politics, being allowed to change, the charming nature of everyone knowing everyone's business), but in a way that was funny and acknowledging the dualities of existing in a contemporary culture within the small-town sphere. IYKYK, honestly. Whynot, NC, hits deeply as someone from neighboring VA. A super-quick read that keeps you glued to the page, with a lovely lead-up to the first kisses and mildly spicy (explicit on page, but not long or detailed - more sweet and emphasizing the emotional connection). One of my favorite micro-tropes - she stands up for him in front of his family (ughhh why do I love this so much?), and my favorite scene was the mmc baking one of his momma's recipes after he and moms had a fight about his secret author career - the love is always there, and the understanding comes in time. SAWYER, you DID THAT.
And if you miss Rome, KY, you'll absolutely love Whynot, NC. And there's already a backlist series set in Whynot, so I don't have to wait for the next book in this series to come out!! Sawyer Bennett has a lifelong fan in me after this one!
Thank you to Sawyer Bennett and The Author Agency for providing an eARC of this book. The opinions are my own.
And if you miss Rome, KY, you'll absolutely love Whynot, NC. And there's already a backlist series set in Whynot, so I don't have to wait for the next book in this series to come out!! Sawyer Bennett has a lifelong fan in me after this one!
Thank you to Sawyer Bennett and The Author Agency for providing an eARC of this book. The opinions are my own.
February 24, 2026
Penny’s return to Whynot to help her aunt at the café pulls her back into a town she thought she’d outgrown. And Whynot? It’s practically a character in its own right. The gossip travels fast, opinions run deep, and everyone has something to say. Yet beneath the meddling and raised eyebrows is a deep-rooted sense of community. The story captures both sides of small-town life. The warmth and the claustrophobia.
Sam is a easygoing bartender with a closely guarded secret. Watching him wrestle with whether to step into the light and claim his success publicly was compelling, especially in a town that may not fully embrace what he creates. The conversations around censorship and closed-mindedness give the book a subtle depth without overwhelming the romance.
Penny and Sam communicate. They support each other’s ambitions. Even when distance and life logistics loom in the background, they approach it with maturity. Their connection feels steady, grounded, and mutually encouraging.
It’s about rediscovering home, finding courage in vulnerability, and realizing that love doesn’t always arrive in a blaze—it can build gently, consistently, and beautifully over time.
If you enjoy small-town romance with heart, and a relationship built on encouragement rather than turmoil, this is a lovely start to a new series.
Sam is a easygoing bartender with a closely guarded secret. Watching him wrestle with whether to step into the light and claim his success publicly was compelling, especially in a town that may not fully embrace what he creates. The conversations around censorship and closed-mindedness give the book a subtle depth without overwhelming the romance.
Penny and Sam communicate. They support each other’s ambitions. Even when distance and life logistics loom in the background, they approach it with maturity. Their connection feels steady, grounded, and mutually encouraging.
It’s about rediscovering home, finding courage in vulnerability, and realizing that love doesn’t always arrive in a blaze—it can build gently, consistently, and beautifully over time.
If you enjoy small-town romance with heart, and a relationship built on encouragement rather than turmoil, this is a lovely start to a new series.
February 25, 2026
What do you do when you return to your home town and fall head over heels for the local author?
Whiskey, Words, and Whispers is absolute fun in a small southern town.
Penny and Sam have known each other each other all their lives, and now that Penny has returned to help her aunt, they begin to realize that they may be feeling more than just neighborly.
Penny and Sam’s story is fun, sweet, and is as chaotic as any story set in a small town can be. I really enjoyed both of these characters because I can understand Penny’s need to leave her hometown to chase her dreams, Sam’s need to stay close to his roots, and the dilemma that happens when you start rethinking those dreams and roots. Their tension, flirting, and even shy moments with each other are the perfect mix to make their story everything you are looking for.
Other than Penny and Sam, the other highlight of this one is the town itself. Whynot is a small southern town with southern ideals and all the chaotic goodness that comes with it. From the conservative pearl clutchers to flamboyant drag queen, Whynot is a characters in its own right, and one I fell in love with. It reminds me of my southern roots in all ways and is spot on when it comes to small town’s shenanigans.
Grab your sweat tea, add a little whiskey, and curl up on your front porch with this fun, addicting romance.
Whiskey, Words, and Whispers is absolute fun in a small southern town.
Penny and Sam have known each other each other all their lives, and now that Penny has returned to help her aunt, they begin to realize that they may be feeling more than just neighborly.
Penny and Sam’s story is fun, sweet, and is as chaotic as any story set in a small town can be. I really enjoyed both of these characters because I can understand Penny’s need to leave her hometown to chase her dreams, Sam’s need to stay close to his roots, and the dilemma that happens when you start rethinking those dreams and roots. Their tension, flirting, and even shy moments with each other are the perfect mix to make their story everything you are looking for.
Other than Penny and Sam, the other highlight of this one is the town itself. Whynot is a small southern town with southern ideals and all the chaotic goodness that comes with it. From the conservative pearl clutchers to flamboyant drag queen, Whynot is a characters in its own right, and one I fell in love with. It reminds me of my southern roots in all ways and is spot on when it comes to small town’s shenanigans.
Grab your sweat tea, add a little whiskey, and curl up on your front porch with this fun, addicting romance.
February 25, 2026
I'm going to offer some advice. If you see a book that Sawyer Bennett wrote, you can confidently grab that book up and start reading it. It doesn't matter if the genre is attorneys, small southern towns, underground sex clubs, hockey or even FI Racing. The book is sure to be well researched and gripping. She's even bound to throw in some heart wrenching drama.
In this new book, we're in the small town off Whynot, NC. Penny has returned home to help take care of her aunt. She has left and built a big political career. But her aunt needs help running her cafe and she's going to help her!
Sam-Pete is the hot bartender at Chesty's, the local bar. He does his best to blend in and stay under the radar. Unfortunately, one day his alter ego is revealed and they find out that Sam is really a successful writer who has been writing spicy hot romance books under a pen name.
Suddenly, Sam-Pete is no longer the great bartender, he's a social piranha who is going to single handedly bring lead the town of Whynot to decay.
But Penny learns that Sam really does know what he is writing about. This leaves her with a dilemma (typical romance book end of book drama), return to her dream career in DC or stay in Whynot and risk everything on a HEA? I know which one I'm rooting for!
In this new book, we're in the small town off Whynot, NC. Penny has returned home to help take care of her aunt. She has left and built a big political career. But her aunt needs help running her cafe and she's going to help her!
Sam-Pete is the hot bartender at Chesty's, the local bar. He does his best to blend in and stay under the radar. Unfortunately, one day his alter ego is revealed and they find out that Sam is really a successful writer who has been writing spicy hot romance books under a pen name.
Suddenly, Sam-Pete is no longer the great bartender, he's a social piranha who is going to single handedly bring lead the town of Whynot to decay.
But Penny learns that Sam really does know what he is writing about. This leaves her with a dilemma (typical romance book end of book drama), return to her dream career in DC or stay in Whynot and risk everything on a HEA? I know which one I'm rooting for!
February 23, 2026
This book was so easy to read, I read it in a day. The writing flowed beautifully and the chapters were the perfect size in my opinion. I loved the small town romance vibes and dynamic between the characters in Whynot. As someone who grew up in a small town in North Carolina I was really able to connect with some of the imagery and small town feel this book gave. Sam is the MMC and is a bartender by day and a Romantasy author by secret. He is so bold and knows what he wants when it comes to Penny our FMC who is working in DC but comes down to help her aunt run the local diner in Whynot while she recovers from an injury. I loved the dynamic between these two and how natural their relationship felt. I also liked the mention of the complications of living in a small town like the gossip that spreads like wildfire, pressures of religion, and constantly running into someone you will know. I would have loved to see a bit more spice in this although that is a personal preference as well as more at the end. I felt that it was cut a bit short and would have loved to see a stronger ending for these two, but other than that it was a solid read. Definitely am looking forward to the next in her series!
February 24, 2026
This was such an amazing story not just about the MMC and FMC but the whole town.
You get so much detail about all the characters of Whynot, North Carolina that makes you feel like you live there.
You have Sam-Pete who is a bartender at the local bar that is hiding secrets that will blow the town out of the water when they find out. Sam has had a crush on Penny most of his young life before she left.
Then enter Penny who comes home to help her Aunt Muriel run the local diner. She’s been in Washington DC fighting for grants to help the smaller businesses and small farmers. She thinks her life is great until she sees every thing that she has missed with familiar faces.
Will Penny decide to go back to Washington to the dreams she thought she wanted or will she stay and make Whynot home again?
Will Sam finally let his town know what he really does? Will he convince Penny to give him a chance?
Sawyer Bennett has a way of showing you every detail about the town, the main characters and the surrounding town members. Her writing is so deceptive that it is easy to get lost for a few hours while reading and discover that you are already at the end.
100% recommend this book
**Received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
You get so much detail about all the characters of Whynot, North Carolina that makes you feel like you live there.
You have Sam-Pete who is a bartender at the local bar that is hiding secrets that will blow the town out of the water when they find out. Sam has had a crush on Penny most of his young life before she left.
Then enter Penny who comes home to help her Aunt Muriel run the local diner. She’s been in Washington DC fighting for grants to help the smaller businesses and small farmers. She thinks her life is great until she sees every thing that she has missed with familiar faces.
Will Penny decide to go back to Washington to the dreams she thought she wanted or will she stay and make Whynot home again?
Will Sam finally let his town know what he really does? Will he convince Penny to give him a chance?
Sawyer Bennett has a way of showing you every detail about the town, the main characters and the surrounding town members. Her writing is so deceptive that it is easy to get lost for a few hours while reading and discover that you are already at the end.
100% recommend this book
**Received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2026
4 Stars
Whiskey, Words, and Whispers is the first book in Sawyer Bennett’s lastest series, Sweet Tea & Trouble and brings us to the small town of Whynot, North Carolina. Sam is the local bartender at Chesty’s and Penny has come home to help her aunt heal from a broken hip and to get her diner running again.
I loved the small town feel of this one, nosy neighbors, the pearl clutching church women and all lol. Sam has been hiding a secret career now for years, but all of that is about to come to light as he reveals the true identity of fantasy romance author S.P. Rochelle. For years, he’s hidden behind the pen name and mystery of who the author really is. Now, with encouragement from his agent, as well as Penny, he’s going all in lol. Their small town is split between the local church women wanting to ban his book, to Floyd and Pap hosting readings of his book at Chesty’s lol.
I really enjoyed this story. The characters (even the secondary ones) are fun and flirty. It has everything you’d expect from a small town. But most of all, it’s about personal growth. There is a little spice, and not just from Sam’s characters ;) I can’t wait for the next book.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Whiskey, Words, and Whispers is the first book in Sawyer Bennett’s lastest series, Sweet Tea & Trouble and brings us to the small town of Whynot, North Carolina. Sam is the local bartender at Chesty’s and Penny has come home to help her aunt heal from a broken hip and to get her diner running again.
I loved the small town feel of this one, nosy neighbors, the pearl clutching church women and all lol. Sam has been hiding a secret career now for years, but all of that is about to come to light as he reveals the true identity of fantasy romance author S.P. Rochelle. For years, he’s hidden behind the pen name and mystery of who the author really is. Now, with encouragement from his agent, as well as Penny, he’s going all in lol. Their small town is split between the local church women wanting to ban his book, to Floyd and Pap hosting readings of his book at Chesty’s lol.
I really enjoyed this story. The characters (even the secondary ones) are fun and flirty. It has everything you’d expect from a small town. But most of all, it’s about personal growth. There is a little spice, and not just from Sam’s characters ;) I can’t wait for the next book.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
A Sweet, Lighthearted Escape
Penny is a big city lobbyist and she returns to her tiny Southern hometown to help her aunt's struggling diner. While she is there she reconnects with Sam. Sam is the town's easygoing bartender, but he is secretly a New York Times bestselling romance author. In the book While Penny is navigating the small town chaos and Sam is making preparations to step into the spotlight and make his job public knowledge, their flirty friendship develops into something deeper.
This book was a perfect palate cleanser. It was warm, easy and full of small town heart. The book had a lot of playful banter and while we all saw where Penny and Sam's friendship goes, it is lovely slow burning and sweet.
The book has the small town vibes on point. Including all the quirky side characters.
The whole story Sam goes through with stepping out of the shadow and making public knowledge that he is a romance author is written very funny but also believable.
This book won't blow you away with debt, but it is exactly the comforting story you want to read on a rainy afternoon with a hot cup of tea.
A Sweet, Lighthearted Escape
Penny is a big city lobbyist and she returns to her tiny Southern hometown to help her aunt's struggling diner. While she is there she reconnects with Sam. Sam is the town's easygoing bartender, but he is secretly a New York Times bestselling romance author. In the book While Penny is navigating the small town chaos and Sam is making preparations to step into the spotlight and make his job public knowledge, their flirty friendship develops into something deeper.
This book was a perfect palate cleanser. It was warm, easy and full of small town heart. The book had a lot of playful banter and while we all saw where Penny and Sam's friendship goes, it is lovely slow burning and sweet.
The book has the small town vibes on point. Including all the quirky side characters.
The whole story Sam goes through with stepping out of the shadow and making public knowledge that he is a romance author is written very funny but also believable.
This book won't blow you away with debt, but it is exactly the comforting story you want to read on a rainy afternoon with a hot cup of tea.
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