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What If It Was Us
Not yet published
Expected 17 Apr 26Ten years after fleeing her Michigan hometown, Addison Bianchi finally returns after inheriting her older brother’s house. After spending the past decade as a Nanny in North Carolina, she’s certain she’s only staying in Michigan long enough to fix up the house and return to the new life she created for herself. A life that doesn’t include any of the people she left behind.
When she returns to town the one person she doesn’t expect to run into is Jackson Delvecchio-the boy who was once her best friend, the boy who broke her heart, and now the man running his family’s beloved restaurant where they spent all their high school years working together. Jackson is different now, no longer the angsty teenager Addison once he’s patient, smiles, and impossible to avoid…especially when he insists on helping Addison with the house renovations.
Addison tries to keep her distance, but peeling back the layers of her old life forces her to confront the truth about what tore them apart—and what still flickers between them. As history threatens to repeat itself, Jackson inches closer to admitting his feelings while Addison does everything she can to run from hers.
As the house transforms, so does everything Addison thought she understood about home, forgiveness, and love. After two weeks with Jackson and the final touches nearly complete, she’s left with two return to her life in North Carolina, or risk her heart by staying in the one place she swore she’d never come back to.
What If It Was Us is a slow-burn story of second chances told in a dual timeline between Addison’s high school years and the present, following her journey as she discovers the meaning of love, family, and forgiveness.
When she returns to town the one person she doesn’t expect to run into is Jackson Delvecchio-the boy who was once her best friend, the boy who broke her heart, and now the man running his family’s beloved restaurant where they spent all their high school years working together. Jackson is different now, no longer the angsty teenager Addison once he’s patient, smiles, and impossible to avoid…especially when he insists on helping Addison with the house renovations.
Addison tries to keep her distance, but peeling back the layers of her old life forces her to confront the truth about what tore them apart—and what still flickers between them. As history threatens to repeat itself, Jackson inches closer to admitting his feelings while Addison does everything she can to run from hers.
As the house transforms, so does everything Addison thought she understood about home, forgiveness, and love. After two weeks with Jackson and the final touches nearly complete, she’s left with two return to her life in North Carolina, or risk her heart by staying in the one place she swore she’d never come back to.
What If It Was Us is a slow-burn story of second chances told in a dual timeline between Addison’s high school years and the present, following her journey as she discovers the meaning of love, family, and forgiveness.
- GenresRomance
320 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 17, 2026
About the author
Anna Lynn
1 book24 followersWelcome to my chaotic brain. I hope my stories can offer laughter, inspire healing, and help you find a way to feel understood.
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February 2, 2026{This is an ARC review}
What If It Was Us by Anna Lynn
𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 • 𝗱𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 • 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝗯𝘂𝘁
| 𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴– WHAT TO EXPECT |
☆ Best friends to lovers 👩❤️💋👨
☆ Found family ❤️🩹
☆ Then-Now format ⏳
☆ They both work at his family's Italian restaurant 🍕
☆ Music is their love language 🎶
☆ Open-door spice (1-2 scenes) 🔥
| 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀!! |
- Substance abuse
- Neglectful home
| 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 |
This book was so easy to devour! I'm usually pretty slow when it comes to reading, but I seriously could not put this one down. I was reading it everywhere–from the nail salon to my bedroom, plunged in darkness at 1AM. There's something seriously so addicting about the way this story unfolded. It felt like watching a coming of age movie! Or, like The Summer I Turned Pretty (without a Jeremiah Fisher 😂)
My favorite thing about this book was the nostalgia. Everything from the playlist, the pop culture references, fashion–everything was SO 2015 and I mean that in the best way. It made me miss that era so much. Give me back Tumblr, lolthatssotrue posts, the 1975, converse, John Green vibes, and dystopian movies in theaters. The setting was so vivid to me, which made me feel so warm and fuzzy for that time period.
I love the found family trope and how heavily it was woven throughout this particular story. I won't give anything away, but the Delvecchio family and Wren's family were seriously the sweetest. I'm so glad Addie was able to find them 💓 Peter's life was like a parallel of what Addie's life could have looked like, had she not chosen to invest in community. To me, that was pretty powerful.
Addie and Jackson came a long way throughout this story–as individuals and together as a couple. They both were realistic characters who had so much growing to do. I felt that by the end, they had really made progress on that journey and I was relieved when they finally got together for real ❤️
I liked that this book addressed the reality that change isn't a finite point in time, but a process. There will be times where you stumble back and times where you excel–it's about how you choose to respond. I feel like you know the characters are portrayed realistically when they keep alternating between pissing you off or making you proud 😂 Argh I was so mad at Jackson for the way he kept treating poor SOPHIE though 🥺 But also, she was equally on her own journey of growth.
In short, I think Anna did a great job at creating multidimensional humans ❤️
Definitely pick this one up if you want something fast paced and nostalgic, while also filled with depth ✨
...
*Please note: I don’t rate ARCS. I only write reviews. I don’t want to affect star averages before pub dates. I view my job with an ARC as an opportunity to share honest feedback for prospective readers, not to categorize or score ✨
What If It Was Us by Anna Lynn
𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 • 𝗱𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 • 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝗯𝘂𝘁
| 𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴– WHAT TO EXPECT |
☆ Best friends to lovers 👩❤️💋👨
☆ Found family ❤️🩹
☆ Then-Now format ⏳
☆ They both work at his family's Italian restaurant 🍕
☆ Music is their love language 🎶
☆ Open-door spice (1-2 scenes) 🔥
| 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀!! |
- Substance abuse
- Neglectful home
| 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 |
This book was so easy to devour! I'm usually pretty slow when it comes to reading, but I seriously could not put this one down. I was reading it everywhere–from the nail salon to my bedroom, plunged in darkness at 1AM. There's something seriously so addicting about the way this story unfolded. It felt like watching a coming of age movie! Or, like The Summer I Turned Pretty (without a Jeremiah Fisher 😂)
My favorite thing about this book was the nostalgia. Everything from the playlist, the pop culture references, fashion–everything was SO 2015 and I mean that in the best way. It made me miss that era so much. Give me back Tumblr, lolthatssotrue posts, the 1975, converse, John Green vibes, and dystopian movies in theaters. The setting was so vivid to me, which made me feel so warm and fuzzy for that time period.
I love the found family trope and how heavily it was woven throughout this particular story. I won't give anything away, but the Delvecchio family and Wren's family were seriously the sweetest. I'm so glad Addie was able to find them 💓 Peter's life was like a parallel of what Addie's life could have looked like, had she not chosen to invest in community. To me, that was pretty powerful.
Addie and Jackson came a long way throughout this story–as individuals and together as a couple. They both were realistic characters who had so much growing to do. I felt that by the end, they had really made progress on that journey and I was relieved when they finally got together for real ❤️
I liked that this book addressed the reality that change isn't a finite point in time, but a process. There will be times where you stumble back and times where you excel–it's about how you choose to respond. I feel like you know the characters are portrayed realistically when they keep alternating between pissing you off or making you proud 😂 Argh I was so mad at Jackson for the way he kept treating poor SOPHIE though 🥺 But also, she was equally on her own journey of growth.
In short, I think Anna did a great job at creating multidimensional humans ❤️
Definitely pick this one up if you want something fast paced and nostalgic, while also filled with depth ✨
...
*Please note: I don’t rate ARCS. I only write reviews. I don’t want to affect star averages before pub dates. I view my job with an ARC as an opportunity to share honest feedback for prospective readers, not to categorize or score ✨
February 7, 2026
OH MY GOSH!!! I absolutely LOVED this book so much. Jackson & Addie’s love story is beautiful and true and so real! I also loved Addie & Julie’s sister relationship! Family isn’t always blood and this book proved that to be true. For a debut novel, this stole my heart and I am already hoping Jackson & Addie has a part 2 in the future 🤍❤️🩹
January 1, 2026
gotta 5 star my own book bc Jackson & Addie are my babies 🥲🥲
January 29, 2026
This book is absolute GOLD for those who love second-chance romance, because Anna Lynn delivers a story about returning home, facing unresolved truths, and discovering that love doesn’t always disappear because of time.
Set against the quiet familiarity of a small Michigan town, it explores grief, forgiveness, and the weight of past choices with a raw honesty that feels intimate and relatable, while the shared history gives every interaction emotional depth, and the renovation becoming a powerful backdrop for healing, reflection, and vulnerability.
But at its core, this is a slow-burning reunion filled with lingering glances, unspoken regret, and a chemistry that never truly faded, serving as a written reminder that sometimes the hardest love stories are the ones worth returning to—and that second chances can be just as powerful as first ones.
It’s tender, painful, and hopeful in all the ways that make a meaningful story.
Set against the quiet familiarity of a small Michigan town, it explores grief, forgiveness, and the weight of past choices with a raw honesty that feels intimate and relatable, while the shared history gives every interaction emotional depth, and the renovation becoming a powerful backdrop for healing, reflection, and vulnerability.
But at its core, this is a slow-burning reunion filled with lingering glances, unspoken regret, and a chemistry that never truly faded, serving as a written reminder that sometimes the hardest love stories are the ones worth returning to—and that second chances can be just as powerful as first ones.
It’s tender, painful, and hopeful in all the ways that make a meaningful story.
March 15, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! 🥹 I could feel chemistry and connection between these characters in my heart. It transported me back to be young and in love for the first time. Great read and wonderful writing! ♥️
February 6, 2026
I loved reading this book! A dual timeline that left me wanting to keep reading every chapter, and giving depth for each character. I also love seeing the growth and change for the characters, while still keeping parts of themselves. A must read!!!
February 3, 2026
Where do I even start! This book is filled with nostalgic vibes and I loved how I was able to feel like I was there with the characters when I was reading this book. I love how Jackson's family was so welcoming to Addison and how close of a relationship they had. These characters went through a lot in this book especially Addison and she could have gone down the wrong path like her brother but she found family and friends where she felt safe and didn’t let her fall. And Jackson where as he had made some bad decisions but he grew from that and became better. These characters were so relatable and I felt like I related to these characters in so many different ways. This book made me laugh, cry and be so frustrated at the same time. I loved reading this book and I would definitely recommend it!
February 22, 2026
~ARC review~
“What If It Was Us” from debut author Anna Lynn coming out April 2026
✿ dual timeline
✿ found family
✿ second chance
✿ best friends to lovers
I absolutely adored this book! All of the characters were incredible, especially Addie and Jackson- and their love for each other was so beautiful. It made me laugh and feel so much nostalgia, especially with all the mentions of specific songs I also listened to in high school.
It reminded me of Christina Lauren’s “Love and Other Words” with its heartfelt story and the dual timeline between present day and adolescence, but it was undeniably very uniquely its own.
If you love romance, specifically the tropes mentioned above I would say that this is a must read!
“You’re my best friend, period. And I love you, period.” 🥺❤️
“What If It Was Us” from debut author Anna Lynn coming out April 2026
✿ dual timeline
✿ found family
✿ second chance
✿ best friends to lovers
I absolutely adored this book! All of the characters were incredible, especially Addie and Jackson- and their love for each other was so beautiful. It made me laugh and feel so much nostalgia, especially with all the mentions of specific songs I also listened to in high school.
It reminded me of Christina Lauren’s “Love and Other Words” with its heartfelt story and the dual timeline between present day and adolescence, but it was undeniably very uniquely its own.
If you love romance, specifically the tropes mentioned above I would say that this is a must read!
“You’re my best friend, period. And I love you, period.” 🥺❤️
April 6, 2026
•°. ❝ For every time Jackson did something to hurt me, there was always something selfless he'd do to redeem himself. ❞ *࿐
✎ᝰ. ★★ stars
✎ᝰ. 2.5/5 spice level
✎ᝰ. tropes:
𝜗𝜚 second chance romance
𝜗𝜚 protective MMC
𝜗𝜚 slow burn
𝜗𝜚 matching tattoos
𝜗𝜚 friends to lovers
˗ˏˋ ꒰ ✉︎ ꒱ ˎˊ˗
First of all, I would like to thank the author, Anna Lynn, for providing me with the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review. What If It Was Us comes out on April 17th, 2026!
This book was a roller coaster for me. I’m a sucker for dual timelines, so that was what got me completely hooked for the first quarter of the book. The initial “before” chapters were my favorites, and although I had some issues along the way, I enjoyed how the story developed throughout.
I’m going to start with the things I loved about this book. The side characters were my absolute favorite part, with a huge spotlight on Julie and Wren. They had me howling with laughter every time they appeared, and both hold a special place in my heart.
Addie, our FMC, was mostly a positive for me. I love how complex and well-developed her story was in the first half of the book, and I was so happy to see her find her family within the Delvecchio clan. The only thing I didn’t like was how naive and downright cruel she was toward Sophie, as well as how she was not only fine with, but actually enjoying, the fact that Jackson was cheating on Sophie with her. She seemed to take pleasure in the idea that he liked her more. Frankly, that’s just disgusting behavior.
As for the things I didn’t love, the main issue was the cheating, both emotional and physical, especially in the “now” timeline and in the latter half of the “before” chapters. And before someone tries to argue that “it was mostly touches and words,” just having the intention to cheat already makes you a cheater, especially when you are actively trying to act on it. Any physical touch with ulterior motives is cheating, whether it is a kiss on the lips or not. And to those who might disagree, I’ll say this: if your partner were acting this way with their “friend,” how would that make you feel?
I hated the fact that Jackson was dating or engaged while actively flirting with Addie, and I spent most of the book dreading the “now” chapters because of it. Instead of rooting for their love story, all I could think about was how sorry I felt for Sophie, because being betrayed like that is absolutely gut-wrenching. You could say this novel was a love story, but that’s only because it was told from Addie’s point of view. Had it been told from Sophie’s, it would have been a heartbreaking one.
Jackson, our MMC, was an asshole. Period. He was described as “protective,” but to me he was just a terrible human being who used others without a second thought for their feelings. He was selfish and inconsiderate, and his very few redeeming qualities were overshadowed by his awful choices.
This might be an unpopular opinion, but I do believe the main characters’ relationship became extremely toxic after the first few years. Addie herself said she forgave all the horrible things he said and did because he was sweet to her afterward, and the worst part was watching her feel guilty over things that were completely Jackson’s fault, while he let her feel that way instead of owning up to his mistakes. It felt like he knew, and was counting on, the fact that she would forgive him no matter how awful he was to her, and he was taking advantage of that. That’s not healthy and should not be normalized. A few mistakes are okay and even human, but a pattern like this isn’t.
Overall, I think this book had the potential to be great if not for the cheating aspect. I loved the writing style, and I think the author has an incredible talent with words. I will be keeping an eye out for future releases and will definitely be reading them, as long as they don’t include this plot point.
•°. ❝ I should have seen the signs — I should have known how bad it was. Was I really that blinded by my love for him that I never saw it? Or did I just not want to see it, because all I cared about back then was wanting him to want me? ❞ *࿐
✎ᝰ. trigger warnings (possible spoilers): parental abandonment, substance abuse, addiction, child abuse, mention of physical harm, violence, emotional cheating, cheating.
February 17, 2026
first— thank you so much to the author for this ARC!
3.75 rounded up!
This was such a good debut novel! I really enjoyed Addie and Jackson’s story and their chemistry. My favorite part of this entire story was easily Jackson’s family’s support of Addie and the genuine love that she was shown. Addie had a very traumatizing home life, and the Delvecchio’s took her in with no hesitation. I LOVE a found family trope so I appreciated that so much.
Second chance is an absolute favorite romance trope of mine. Anna did that REALLY well here with the dual timeline giving us an in depth look at their past and how they got to where they are now. I do tend to stay away from second chance that involves kids under 18 solely because I personally find it uncomfortable to read any sort of sexual tension between young adults, so that is my ONLY grievance with the dual timeline in this one!
I felt SO BAD for Sophie the entire time and I feel like I’m in the minority here! I really wish we could’ve seen Jackson having a conversation with her about all the things that occurred. There is a slight cheating trope here, so be mindful of that! I side-eyed Jackson SO MANY TIMES while reading this hahaha.
I LOVED the theme of using music to convey thoughts between these characters. It was so unlike anything I’ve read before and for me, so realistic. The playlist is phenomenal and the songs were so clearly carefully chosen to represent the moments perfectly.
Otherwise, this was a beautiful story about love and growth and family despite the cards that Addie was dealt. Thank goodness for families like the Delvecchios for showing up and showing out. Anna, thank you so much for the ARC opportunity. I loved this journey inside your brain. You handled some very tough topics with such grace and had my eyes filled with tears so many times. You are a gem and I can 100% believe that you came from a family like the Delvecchios, because it shows <3
3.75 rounded up!
This was such a good debut novel! I really enjoyed Addie and Jackson’s story and their chemistry. My favorite part of this entire story was easily Jackson’s family’s support of Addie and the genuine love that she was shown. Addie had a very traumatizing home life, and the Delvecchio’s took her in with no hesitation. I LOVE a found family trope so I appreciated that so much.
Second chance is an absolute favorite romance trope of mine. Anna did that REALLY well here with the dual timeline giving us an in depth look at their past and how they got to where they are now. I do tend to stay away from second chance that involves kids under 18 solely because I personally find it uncomfortable to read any sort of sexual tension between young adults, so that is my ONLY grievance with the dual timeline in this one!
I felt SO BAD for Sophie the entire time and I feel like I’m in the minority here! I really wish we could’ve seen Jackson having a conversation with her about all the things that occurred. There is a slight cheating trope here, so be mindful of that! I side-eyed Jackson SO MANY TIMES while reading this hahaha.
I LOVED the theme of using music to convey thoughts between these characters. It was so unlike anything I’ve read before and for me, so realistic. The playlist is phenomenal and the songs were so clearly carefully chosen to represent the moments perfectly.
Otherwise, this was a beautiful story about love and growth and family despite the cards that Addie was dealt. Thank goodness for families like the Delvecchios for showing up and showing out. Anna, thank you so much for the ARC opportunity. I loved this journey inside your brain. You handled some very tough topics with such grace and had my eyes filled with tears so many times. You are a gem and I can 100% believe that you came from a family like the Delvecchios, because it shows <3
February 18, 2026
✨“I never needed you to save me, Jackson. I just wanted you to love me back.” ✨
The ultimate second chance, friends to lovers story that you didn’t know you needed! It’s such a heartfelt, emotional, & beautiful love story of two kids who fall in love, but cannot be together.
But years later, they reconnect and find that the connection never faded after all these years, and now that they’re grown, they can rewrite their love story and have their happily ever after. 🥹
I could not put this book down!! The timelines fluctuated between the past and the present, from freshman year of high school all the way up to graduation and 10 years into the present.
Addison never knew her father and her mother abandoned her and her brother Peter. Peter was an alcoholic who verbally abused her at times.
So her home life was not ideal.
She found a job that became more than just a job. The family who owned it, they became her family. The found family trope is *chefs kiss* in this story!!
And that’s where Jackson comes in. He is the son of the owners of her job. He goes to the same school and they ride together to/from work and school. They spend so much time together & become best friends. They know they can’t fall for each other because it’ll destroy her work life and her only family she has now, if they don’t work out.
But they both secretly hope the other will just make a move. The slow burn is so so slow, but it’s so worth it in the end.
Found family, slow burn, SO much angst, mental health rep, substance abuse, physical abuse, friends to lovers, abandonment, are just some of the tropes in this book!
It is truly such a sweet love story that slowly formed from childhood friends, to moving away, to coming back as adults and realizing the love never went away. It only intensified as time passed. Highly recommend!! 💗
The ultimate second chance, friends to lovers story that you didn’t know you needed! It’s such a heartfelt, emotional, & beautiful love story of two kids who fall in love, but cannot be together.
But years later, they reconnect and find that the connection never faded after all these years, and now that they’re grown, they can rewrite their love story and have their happily ever after. 🥹
I could not put this book down!! The timelines fluctuated between the past and the present, from freshman year of high school all the way up to graduation and 10 years into the present.
Addison never knew her father and her mother abandoned her and her brother Peter. Peter was an alcoholic who verbally abused her at times.
So her home life was not ideal.
She found a job that became more than just a job. The family who owned it, they became her family. The found family trope is *chefs kiss* in this story!!
And that’s where Jackson comes in. He is the son of the owners of her job. He goes to the same school and they ride together to/from work and school. They spend so much time together & become best friends. They know they can’t fall for each other because it’ll destroy her work life and her only family she has now, if they don’t work out.
But they both secretly hope the other will just make a move. The slow burn is so so slow, but it’s so worth it in the end.
Found family, slow burn, SO much angst, mental health rep, substance abuse, physical abuse, friends to lovers, abandonment, are just some of the tropes in this book!
It is truly such a sweet love story that slowly formed from childhood friends, to moving away, to coming back as adults and realizing the love never went away. It only intensified as time passed. Highly recommend!! 💗
March 27, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Thank you Anna Lynn for sharing an eARC copy of your book with me!
Second chance romance and friends to lovers are two of my favorite tropes and Anna truly knocked it out of the park with this story. We follow a dual timeline story of high school best friends Addison and Jackson, who form a friendship with strong romantic under currents that they can’t necessarily act on due to some life circumstances. Anna did such a great job at conveying that familiar teenage angst, combined with the crazy first love feelings where everything feels life altering. Music plays a pivotal role in the story and the song references in the past timeframe took me right back and I knew exactly what time was in Anna’s head for the story based off the song choice referenced in the scene.
Present day Jackson irked me even more than past Jackson but he is 1. a man and 2. his name starts with a J 😂😂 just kidding. Listen our boy never claimed to be perfect okay?? Are the flaws there? Yes. Was I really frustrated at him at some points? Yes? Does he bring her food and they accidentally have matching tattoos? Also yes. Two imperfect people are perfect together and the family they are both loved by made it even better!!
Can’t wait to read what is next from this talented author 🩷
Thank you Anna Lynn for sharing an eARC copy of your book with me!
Second chance romance and friends to lovers are two of my favorite tropes and Anna truly knocked it out of the park with this story. We follow a dual timeline story of high school best friends Addison and Jackson, who form a friendship with strong romantic under currents that they can’t necessarily act on due to some life circumstances. Anna did such a great job at conveying that familiar teenage angst, combined with the crazy first love feelings where everything feels life altering. Music plays a pivotal role in the story and the song references in the past timeframe took me right back and I knew exactly what time was in Anna’s head for the story based off the song choice referenced in the scene.
Present day Jackson irked me even more than past Jackson but he is 1. a man and 2. his name starts with a J 😂😂 just kidding. Listen our boy never claimed to be perfect okay?? Are the flaws there? Yes. Was I really frustrated at him at some points? Yes? Does he bring her food and they accidentally have matching tattoos? Also yes. Two imperfect people are perfect together and the family they are both loved by made it even better!!
Can’t wait to read what is next from this talented author 🩷
March 10, 2026
What a beautiful story. It's well-written, authentic, and utterly heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. I always love a good friends to lovers novel, and this one was just that, but even more layered.
Her characters are deeply human, which means they're flawed, but they're also just like us. I honestly feel like I could walk down the street and possibly run into Addison, Jackson, Sophie, or Julie just by how realistic Anna was able to make them. Their complicated emotions felt so real to me, and I know I've experienced the same amount of jealousy that both Addie and Sophie had experienced throughout the novel, as well as the fear Addie has of entering her own household. The dialogue was witty, the banter was fun, but the story didn't shy away from darker themes, such as abuse, alcoholism, and drugs. I liked that these topics were included because it added to the complexity of the plot.
I especially loved this book because I've gotten to know the author herself! I don't think I can actually say that for any other books that I've ever read, and there's something so beautiful about being able to connect with the person who created Addie and Jackson's world.
Her characters are deeply human, which means they're flawed, but they're also just like us. I honestly feel like I could walk down the street and possibly run into Addison, Jackson, Sophie, or Julie just by how realistic Anna was able to make them. Their complicated emotions felt so real to me, and I know I've experienced the same amount of jealousy that both Addie and Sophie had experienced throughout the novel, as well as the fear Addie has of entering her own household. The dialogue was witty, the banter was fun, but the story didn't shy away from darker themes, such as abuse, alcoholism, and drugs. I liked that these topics were included because it added to the complexity of the plot.
I especially loved this book because I've gotten to know the author herself! I don't think I can actually say that for any other books that I've ever read, and there's something so beautiful about being able to connect with the person who created Addie and Jackson's world.
February 6, 2026
ANNA!!! I’m so proud of you and this book ❤️
I read this book in one sitting (it was so good that I couldn’t put it down!) and I instantly loved the captivating writing style, the friends-to-lovers plot, the cute humor, and the moments that were tugging at my heartstrings.
I instantly became invested in the characters. Along with being a fan of Jackson and Addie, I also loved the relationship between Jackson and Julie, and the way Addie was accepted by their family. It was truly heartwarming to see all the ways they loved Addie, and how they made her feel part of their family.
I also absolutely adored all of the song references (the Taylor Swift songs, the 2000s throwback songs, Gracie Abrams, Noah Kahan, etc.)!
This was such a great book, and I will read anything Anna Lynn writes!!!
I read this book in one sitting (it was so good that I couldn’t put it down!) and I instantly loved the captivating writing style, the friends-to-lovers plot, the cute humor, and the moments that were tugging at my heartstrings.
I instantly became invested in the characters. Along with being a fan of Jackson and Addie, I also loved the relationship between Jackson and Julie, and the way Addie was accepted by their family. It was truly heartwarming to see all the ways they loved Addie, and how they made her feel part of their family.
I also absolutely adored all of the song references (the Taylor Swift songs, the 2000s throwback songs, Gracie Abrams, Noah Kahan, etc.)!
This was such a great book, and I will read anything Anna Lynn writes!!!
February 2, 2026
Jackson and Addison’s story is told through a dual timeline, effortlessly flowing from their teenage years to the current day. From best friends to lovers to no contact, how will their story end when Addison is forced to return to her hometown and face the past?
I devoured What If It Was Us in two days. If I didn’t have little people depending on me to survive I would’ve had it done in one sitting. This story broke my heart, made me physically ache, and put my heart back together piece by piece. Music is also a huge part of telling this story, so there’s a great playlist included. If you like a good second chance romance that will make you feel like the characters are your friends, then this is it!
I devoured What If It Was Us in two days. If I didn’t have little people depending on me to survive I would’ve had it done in one sitting. This story broke my heart, made me physically ache, and put my heart back together piece by piece. Music is also a huge part of telling this story, so there’s a great playlist included. If you like a good second chance romance that will make you feel like the characters are your friends, then this is it!
April 3, 2026
First, I’m so thankful I received this ARC from the author! For a debut novel, I adored this book. Sometimes I don’t love dual timelines but this was so well-balanced and there were so many delicate themes handled so well! A sweet friends-to-lovers, found family romance that I would love to recommend!
I also loved the songs sprinkled throughout the story to connect to the main character feelings. Side note, huge Taylor Swift fan and appreciated so many references to her songs as well.
Favorite quote: “You’re my best friend, period. I love you, period.” 🤍
Trigger warnings: I was aware heading into this read but you should be too. Substance abuse, domestic abuse, and grief present throughout.
I also loved the songs sprinkled throughout the story to connect to the main character feelings. Side note, huge Taylor Swift fan and appreciated so many references to her songs as well.
Favorite quote: “You’re my best friend, period. I love you, period.” 🤍
Trigger warnings: I was aware heading into this read but you should be too. Substance abuse, domestic abuse, and grief present throughout.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2026
{ARC READ}
4 ⭐️
I absolutely loved this book! I flew through it in just two days. It’s a beautifully done second-chance romance with strong found-family vibes (my favorite), and I was rooting for the characters from the very first chapter. I genuinely fell in love with them and their story.
I usually struggle with dual-timeline stories (because I get bored easily), but this one felt important & necessary. The past timeline never felt like filler and I stayed fully invested in both timelines from start to finish.
I can’t wait to read more of Anna’s work. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!
4 ⭐️
I absolutely loved this book! I flew through it in just two days. It’s a beautifully done second-chance romance with strong found-family vibes (my favorite), and I was rooting for the characters from the very first chapter. I genuinely fell in love with them and their story.
I usually struggle with dual-timeline stories (because I get bored easily), but this one felt important & necessary. The past timeline never felt like filler and I stayed fully invested in both timelines from start to finish.
I can’t wait to read more of Anna’s work. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!
February 12, 2026
I was lucky enough to be granted ARC access to this story, and I’m SO glad I was! Addie & Jackson are two characters I loved to get to know!
Found family, female friendships, friends to lovers, back to friends, back to lovers?? I just LOVED every trope this story offered! The banter is laugh-out-loud funny, the metaphors are enough to make you stop & think, and the emotional moments are so well written that I had tears in my eyes more times than I could count.
What an amazing read! You have a fan for life, Anna!
Found family, female friendships, friends to lovers, back to friends, back to lovers?? I just LOVED every trope this story offered! The banter is laugh-out-loud funny, the metaphors are enough to make you stop & think, and the emotional moments are so well written that I had tears in my eyes more times than I could count.
What an amazing read! You have a fan for life, Anna!
January 25, 2026
This book was a 6 star read for me. Easily one of my favourite books I’ve read. Jackson and Addie have overcome so much together it was so beautiful to watch. I couldn’t read it fast enough yet I wanted to savour it. It made me feel like I was on a rollercoaster of emotions in the best way 🥰 I can’t recommend it enough!!
April 3, 2026
Amazing!! A love story that will keep you on your toes. This book has something for every type of reader.
April 2, 2026
4.5⭐️ I couldn’t put this book down - I read it in 2 days and that is not normal for me! I could picture it being a movie it was so good! Great first book I cannot wait to read more from Anna Lynnn
February 19, 2026
I want to start by saying a huge thank you to Anna for giving me a sneak peek at this book to review. I’m genuinely so honored.
Okay, now the review: WOW. This book was an emotional rollercoaster to say the least. It completely transported me back to high school with the angst, the intensity, the nostalgia, and the MUSIC. The music mentioned throughout was elite, and it added such a strong emotional layer that made every moment hit harder. I also loved the nods to Taylor Swift — big Swiftie here.
Reading this book was like stepping back into my own high school years, the awkwardness, heartbreak, exhilaration, and all those small, unforgettable moments that feel so much bigger at that age. I could understand why Addie was drawn to Jackson. And Jackson… ohhhhh Jackson. That boy tested me more than once, but I also got why she felt so drawn to him. The back and forth between past and present slowly revealed the choices, mistakes, and misunderstandings that led them here and kept me completely invested — which is exactly why I finished the book in just two days!
This story is about forgiveness, second chances, and the quiet weight of “what could have been.” If you love slow-burn romance and emotional nostalgia, this one will absolutely get you in your feels.
Okay, now the review: WOW. This book was an emotional rollercoaster to say the least. It completely transported me back to high school with the angst, the intensity, the nostalgia, and the MUSIC. The music mentioned throughout was elite, and it added such a strong emotional layer that made every moment hit harder. I also loved the nods to Taylor Swift — big Swiftie here.
Reading this book was like stepping back into my own high school years, the awkwardness, heartbreak, exhilaration, and all those small, unforgettable moments that feel so much bigger at that age. I could understand why Addie was drawn to Jackson. And Jackson… ohhhhh Jackson. That boy tested me more than once, but I also got why she felt so drawn to him. The back and forth between past and present slowly revealed the choices, mistakes, and misunderstandings that led them here and kept me completely invested — which is exactly why I finished the book in just two days!
This story is about forgiveness, second chances, and the quiet weight of “what could have been.” If you love slow-burn romance and emotional nostalgia, this one will absolutely get you in your feels.
March 12, 2026
This book had me hooked from the very start! All of the romance tropes were beautifully done, and I couldn’t put the book down until I knew how Addie and Jackson’s story would turn out. Told through an alternating timeline and dual POV, we get a full picture of Addie and Jackson’s journey. This is truly a beautiful story about friends growing up together and evolving over the years.
Addie returns to Michigan after being gone for ten years. She’s had a crush on Jackson from the moment she met him. Addie has a traumatic upbringing and lives with her alcoholic brother, who resents her because of their mother and the past they share.
Jackson, on the other hand, comes from a strong, loving family. And—lo and behold—he has always had feelings for Addie, too. He stayed in Michigan and built a life after Addie left, but everything changes when he learns she’s back. All their old memories and emotions come rushing in.
I loved all the song references throughout the book. Each one tied perfectly into the emotions Addie and Jackson were feeling—sometimes separately, and sometimes together—as their relationship slowly unfolds from friends to lovers.
If you love a good second chance romance, this book is 100% for you!
Thank you so much Anna Lynn for this ARC!! Your book is so wonderful!!
Addie returns to Michigan after being gone for ten years. She’s had a crush on Jackson from the moment she met him. Addie has a traumatic upbringing and lives with her alcoholic brother, who resents her because of their mother and the past they share.
Jackson, on the other hand, comes from a strong, loving family. And—lo and behold—he has always had feelings for Addie, too. He stayed in Michigan and built a life after Addie left, but everything changes when he learns she’s back. All their old memories and emotions come rushing in.
I loved all the song references throughout the book. Each one tied perfectly into the emotions Addie and Jackson were feeling—sometimes separately, and sometimes together—as their relationship slowly unfolds from friends to lovers.
If you love a good second chance romance, this book is 100% for you!
Thank you so much Anna Lynn for this ARC!! Your book is so wonderful!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
OH MY GOD! 5 STARS IS NOT ENOUGH FOR THIS BOOK LET ME TELL YOU.
Thank you so much Anna for letting me read this early, I am forever in debt to you, this story changed me!!!
This was everything I want in a book I cannot stress it enough. This was an emotional rollercoaster that made my heart break and heal back together and also frustrated me but left me reeling with happiness. Jackson and Addie are truly just, everything. I felt truly immersed in this story with the dual timeline, getting the main characters in present day, and in the past was truly perfect. We got them growing up together and were lucky enough to learn everything about them that was relevant to the story. This bought up so many nostalgic feelings for me, and the SONGS?!?!?!?! are you joking, they were perfect. Anna Lynn referenced The Story So Far, and to me that was truly perfection. Every song was relevant to the situation, and it just created such a deeper story and feeling for me as the reader and I could not get enough.
For me personally, the characters were so relatable, like their situations I have definitely found myself in and it made the story have even more depth. Julia, Maria, EVERYONE, held such a profound part in this story and seeing them take in Addie as their own was truly just heartwarming. Jackson and Addie went through rough times and always found each other even if it wasn't pretty and to me, that is everything in a story. It wasn't always roses and sunshine, to be honest, majority of it was not, and that's what I loved because it was REAL.
Anna Lynn knows how to write a story, she knows how to make you feel something, and I am so very thankful to have read this story, I just need MORE. There is probably so much more I am forgetting to say, I am truly just reeling after finishing this, I am crying, I am happy, I am all over the place in the best possible way.
If you want your heart broken, put back together, ripped out of your chest and put back together again, read this!!!!!!! Jackson and Addie were everything.
What If It Was Us is out on April 17th, do yourself a favor and pick this up, you will not be disappointed!
Thank you so much Anna for letting me read this early, I am forever in debt to you, this story changed me!!!
This was everything I want in a book I cannot stress it enough. This was an emotional rollercoaster that made my heart break and heal back together and also frustrated me but left me reeling with happiness. Jackson and Addie are truly just, everything. I felt truly immersed in this story with the dual timeline, getting the main characters in present day, and in the past was truly perfect. We got them growing up together and were lucky enough to learn everything about them that was relevant to the story. This bought up so many nostalgic feelings for me, and the SONGS?!?!?!?! are you joking, they were perfect. Anna Lynn referenced The Story So Far, and to me that was truly perfection. Every song was relevant to the situation, and it just created such a deeper story and feeling for me as the reader and I could not get enough.
For me personally, the characters were so relatable, like their situations I have definitely found myself in and it made the story have even more depth. Julia, Maria, EVERYONE, held such a profound part in this story and seeing them take in Addie as their own was truly just heartwarming. Jackson and Addie went through rough times and always found each other even if it wasn't pretty and to me, that is everything in a story. It wasn't always roses and sunshine, to be honest, majority of it was not, and that's what I loved because it was REAL.
Anna Lynn knows how to write a story, she knows how to make you feel something, and I am so very thankful to have read this story, I just need MORE. There is probably so much more I am forgetting to say, I am truly just reeling after finishing this, I am crying, I am happy, I am all over the place in the best possible way.
If you want your heart broken, put back together, ripped out of your chest and put back together again, read this!!!!!!! Jackson and Addie were everything.
What If It Was Us is out on April 17th, do yourself a favor and pick this up, you will not be disappointed!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If I could say only one thing, it would be this: this book is pure magic. This book manages to do something that all author’s set out to do when writing and what so may fail to do: it impacts the reader long after it’s over. It tells a once-in-a-lifetime story, one so thoughtfully and beautifully crafted that it seems to alter you as you read. Long after the final page, it lingers. This may very well be my favorite read of the year. If six stars were an option, I would give them without hesitation.
I don’t usually gravitate toward romance written solely from the FMC’s perspective, yet here it felt essential. The writing was intoxicating. I couldn’t put the book down. I felt Addie’s longing and heartbreak as if they were my own, and all I wanted was for her to finally receive the happiness she so deeply deserved. The tension between her and Jackson was exquisite, aching, and impossible to ignore.
And Jackson, my sweet Jackson. He is a rare kind of MMC, fully realized and profoundly human. Where so many characters are written to be flawless, he is allowed to be imperfect. Those flaws give him depth, vulnerability, and a quiet beauty that made me care for him all the more.
This story is threaded with magic, both on the page and in the way it makes you feel. If you are given the chance to read it, consider yourself lucky.
I don’t usually gravitate toward romance written solely from the FMC’s perspective, yet here it felt essential. The writing was intoxicating. I couldn’t put the book down. I felt Addie’s longing and heartbreak as if they were my own, and all I wanted was for her to finally receive the happiness she so deeply deserved. The tension between her and Jackson was exquisite, aching, and impossible to ignore.
And Jackson, my sweet Jackson. He is a rare kind of MMC, fully realized and profoundly human. Where so many characters are written to be flawless, he is allowed to be imperfect. Those flaws give him depth, vulnerability, and a quiet beauty that made me care for him all the more.
This story is threaded with magic, both on the page and in the way it makes you feel. If you are given the chance to read it, consider yourself lucky.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all ANNA.... I am so proud of you.. YOU DID THAT!!!
There are some books that entertain you… and then there are books that quietly sit with you for a long time and this one is one of those books.
This story felt soft and aching in the most beautiful way. It’s about timing, missed chances, the fragility of love, and the terrifying question we’ve all asked at least once — what if? What if we had said yes? What if we had stayed? What if it was really meant to be?
I loved how real the emotions felt. Nothing was rushed, nothing felt forced. The connection between the characters wasn’t loud, it was subtle, lingering… like a memory you replay in your mind at 3 a.m. It reminded me that sometimes love isn’t about grand gestures. Sometimes it’s about the moments that almost happened.
There’s something so painfully romantic about a story that explores possibility instead of certainty. It made my old soul ache in the best way. It made me reflect on choices, on destiny, on whether some people are meant to find each other again in another lifetime.(You see what I did here, lol)
This book is tender. It’s quiet. It’s honest. And it leaves you with that bittersweet feeling that love is both beautiful and unpredictable.
I was hyperventilating so damn much... I'm gonna get you Anna. I loved it so much and read this one bestie.
There are some books that entertain you… and then there are books that quietly sit with you for a long time and this one is one of those books.
This story felt soft and aching in the most beautiful way. It’s about timing, missed chances, the fragility of love, and the terrifying question we’ve all asked at least once — what if? What if we had said yes? What if we had stayed? What if it was really meant to be?
I loved how real the emotions felt. Nothing was rushed, nothing felt forced. The connection between the characters wasn’t loud, it was subtle, lingering… like a memory you replay in your mind at 3 a.m. It reminded me that sometimes love isn’t about grand gestures. Sometimes it’s about the moments that almost happened.
There’s something so painfully romantic about a story that explores possibility instead of certainty. It made my old soul ache in the best way. It made me reflect on choices, on destiny, on whether some people are meant to find each other again in another lifetime.(You see what I did here, lol)
This book is tender. It’s quiet. It’s honest. And it leaves you with that bittersweet feeling that love is both beautiful and unpredictable.
I was hyperventilating so damn much... I'm gonna get you Anna. I loved it so much and read this one bestie.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love when I have the opportunity to read an early copy of an upcoming novel by an indie author — I feel like, so many times, the ARCs are for “already famous” authors who (yes, still need the love and advance reviews but) already have an audience.
So I was stoked to run across Anna Lynn and her novel, What If It Was Us.
This is a beautiful second chance romance, told in dual timeline format, and boy did it speak to my music and pop-culture-loving heart. We go back and forth from 2015 to 2025, and honestly? 2015 was a uniquely good year in my life and it was fun to relive some of that timeframe while reading this.
I loved both Addie and Jackson. While they were both likable characters, they were also both flawed. I appreciated this, as it seems easier to write “the perfect person” than to recognize the ways they are challenging.
The thread of found family was strong here, and I was really struck by the way Addie built her community around her.
And the ending? Perfection. I closed the cover on my Kindle with a huge smile on my face.
Loved, loved, loved. Make sure you grab this when it drops on April 17 and give some love to those indie and new authors in our midst. Thank you, Anna Lynn, for sharing your story with me! ♥️
So I was stoked to run across Anna Lynn and her novel, What If It Was Us.
This is a beautiful second chance romance, told in dual timeline format, and boy did it speak to my music and pop-culture-loving heart. We go back and forth from 2015 to 2025, and honestly? 2015 was a uniquely good year in my life and it was fun to relive some of that timeframe while reading this.
I loved both Addie and Jackson. While they were both likable characters, they were also both flawed. I appreciated this, as it seems easier to write “the perfect person” than to recognize the ways they are challenging.
The thread of found family was strong here, and I was really struck by the way Addie built her community around her.
And the ending? Perfection. I closed the cover on my Kindle with a huge smile on my face.
Loved, loved, loved. Make sure you grab this when it drops on April 17 and give some love to those indie and new authors in our midst. Thank you, Anna Lynn, for sharing your story with me! ♥️
Review of advance copy received from Author
EEEEP! I cannot say thank you enough to Anna Lynn for allowing me the opportunity to read an ARC of her debut novel, What If It Was Us.
In this dual timeline novel, we meet Addison Bianchi and Jackson Delvecchio. Addison has a less than ideal family life and finds herself not only befriending Jackson, but becoming close with the whole Delvecchio family as she starts working for the family restaurant. The friendship between Addie and Jackson was complicated, but they were always there for each other at the end of the day.
Anna Lynn really did a seamless job with interweaving the present and past timelines together which was a true skill! I also loved how nostalgic the past timelines were and how important music was to the story. The story itself in addition to the music really brought me back to 2015 and I couldn’t get enough. I didn’t want to stop reading this anytime I had to because I needed to know what happened next. This was a truly touching story and I look forward to reading Anna Lynn’s future work. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a nostalgic, second-chance romance!
In this dual timeline novel, we meet Addison Bianchi and Jackson Delvecchio. Addison has a less than ideal family life and finds herself not only befriending Jackson, but becoming close with the whole Delvecchio family as she starts working for the family restaurant. The friendship between Addie and Jackson was complicated, but they were always there for each other at the end of the day.
Anna Lynn really did a seamless job with interweaving the present and past timelines together which was a true skill! I also loved how nostalgic the past timelines were and how important music was to the story. The story itself in addition to the music really brought me back to 2015 and I couldn’t get enough. I didn’t want to stop reading this anytime I had to because I needed to know what happened next. This was a truly touching story and I look forward to reading Anna Lynn’s future work. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a nostalgic, second-chance romance!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC provided by the author, Anna Lynn — thank you so much for the opportunity to read this story.
What If It Was Us completely stole my heart. Jackson and Addison own a permanent place in it now. I read this in one sitting on a plane because I physically could not put it down until I had every answer.
This is a dual-timeline, childhood-friends-to-lovers, second-chance romance that feels both nostalgic and deeply emotional. Watching their story unfold across time made every moment hit harder. My heart broke for Addie and Jackson more than once… but somehow this story also stitched it back together.
The emotional depth is beautiful, but please be mindful of the trigger warnings before going in.
And can we talk about the 2010 music references?? The playlist at the end was such a perfect touch !I immediately added it on Spotify and it made the experience even more immersive.
Anna, your writing is incredible. I loved every second of this book, and I cannot wait to read more from you.
If you love emotional second-chance romance with nostalgic vibes and characters you’ll ache for, this one is absolutely worth it. 💛
What If It Was Us completely stole my heart. Jackson and Addison own a permanent place in it now. I read this in one sitting on a plane because I physically could not put it down until I had every answer.
This is a dual-timeline, childhood-friends-to-lovers, second-chance romance that feels both nostalgic and deeply emotional. Watching their story unfold across time made every moment hit harder. My heart broke for Addie and Jackson more than once… but somehow this story also stitched it back together.
The emotional depth is beautiful, but please be mindful of the trigger warnings before going in.
And can we talk about the 2010 music references?? The playlist at the end was such a perfect touch !I immediately added it on Spotify and it made the experience even more immersive.
Anna, your writing is incredible. I loved every second of this book, and I cannot wait to read more from you.
If you love emotional second-chance romance with nostalgic vibes and characters you’ll ache for, this one is absolutely worth it. 💛
Review of advance copy received from Author
My first ARC! Anna you really knocked this one out of the park.
I absolutely loved the rollercoaster of emotions as I learned more and more about Addie and Jackson’s friendship. I was happy, I was sad, I was absolutely gut wrenched, and rooting for them throughout.
It was a beautiful balance of dual timelines, learning the context from “before” while getting bits and pieces of their history in the “now.”
I think this was also realistic in the fact that Addie had her found family, lost contact with them for years, but found their way back and picked up where they left off with some conversations and forgiveness.
Also, hate Peter. Lowkey glad he was not around for the “Now” parts of the story. 😅
This love story was anything but perfect between Addie and Jackson, but they figured it out in the end 🩷
I can’t wait for more people to read this story! Out May 17, 2026 🫶🙌
I absolutely loved the rollercoaster of emotions as I learned more and more about Addie and Jackson’s friendship. I was happy, I was sad, I was absolutely gut wrenched, and rooting for them throughout.
It was a beautiful balance of dual timelines, learning the context from “before” while getting bits and pieces of their history in the “now.”
I think this was also realistic in the fact that Addie had her found family, lost contact with them for years, but found their way back and picked up where they left off with some conversations and forgiveness.
Also, hate Peter. Lowkey glad he was not around for the “Now” parts of the story. 😅
This love story was anything but perfect between Addie and Jackson, but they figured it out in the end 🩷
I can’t wait for more people to read this story! Out May 17, 2026 🫶🙌
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