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Something Good In The Dust: A Small Town Romance
A swoon-worthy opposites attract romance set in the small town of Willow Creek.
Impulsive and carefree, 32-year-old Lilly spends her days running a bakery and daydreaming about her next travel destination. But what she yearns for, more than anything, is finding someone she can be her true, lively self around. And in small-town Willow Creek, the chances of finding her match are slim to none.
That is, until Kade, a reserved but sexy police officer, comes to town, searching for an escape from his past. Jaded and trying to remain a loner, all he wants is to start a new, quiet life in sleepy Willow Creek.
But when Kade pulls Lilly over one night, it sparks a string of quirky run-ins that eat away at his reserved nature. When the dust storm rolls in, they end up on a collision course, and she becomes an irresistible light in his bleak world. As for Lilly… this uniform-clad, unadventurous man makes her giddy in the best ways. In a windstorm of sub-par driving skills, unfortunate sourdough decisions, and questionable pet choices, Kade and Lilly find that opposites really do attract. Each moment spent together sparks undeniable chemistry, bringing the promise of something more.
But when someone from Kade's past makes an unexpected visit, bringing his past traumas to the surface…will he and Lilly find a way forward or let it all crumble?
Trigger memory of officer involved shooting.
Impulsive and carefree, 32-year-old Lilly spends her days running a bakery and daydreaming about her next travel destination. But what she yearns for, more than anything, is finding someone she can be her true, lively self around. And in small-town Willow Creek, the chances of finding her match are slim to none.
That is, until Kade, a reserved but sexy police officer, comes to town, searching for an escape from his past. Jaded and trying to remain a loner, all he wants is to start a new, quiet life in sleepy Willow Creek.
But when Kade pulls Lilly over one night, it sparks a string of quirky run-ins that eat away at his reserved nature. When the dust storm rolls in, they end up on a collision course, and she becomes an irresistible light in his bleak world. As for Lilly… this uniform-clad, unadventurous man makes her giddy in the best ways. In a windstorm of sub-par driving skills, unfortunate sourdough decisions, and questionable pet choices, Kade and Lilly find that opposites really do attract. Each moment spent together sparks undeniable chemistry, bringing the promise of something more.
But when someone from Kade's past makes an unexpected visit, bringing his past traumas to the surface…will he and Lilly find a way forward or let it all crumble?
Trigger memory of officer involved shooting.
343 pages, Paperback
Published January 5, 2026
9 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Michelle J. Mann
2 books26 followersMichelle Mann writes sweet, contemporary small town romances with heartfelt characters and a healthy dose of humor that will have you grinning from ear to ear. She has lived in Texas since she was a very young child and now lives with her husband and two of her children. Her debut novel was released in March 2025 with glowing reviews from readers who felt genuine, deep connections to the characters. Michelle graduated with her master's degree in applied psychology in 2017 and has found a purpose in advocating for individuals with disabilities. Michelle has many hobbies, but particularly loves spontaneous do-it-yourself projects, reading, writing, traveling, and taking care of plants.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 28, 2025
I was lucky to be an ARC reader and this book did not disappoint. This was such a refreshing quick read! This book was a fast-paced, closed door romance that focused on genuine connection between the leads instead of spice and drama. The story moved quickly but never felt rushed, so each moment between the leads was heartfelt and believable. The main character’s quirky personality made her endearing to the reader. The relationship developed naturally, full of sweet banter and tender moments that made me smile more than once.
If you’re looking for a cozy, wholesome romance that leaves you feeling warm and satisfied without any explicit scenes, this one’s a perfect pick.
If you’re looking for a cozy, wholesome romance that leaves you feeling warm and satisfied without any explicit scenes, this one’s a perfect pick.
January 25, 2026
I loved this book just as much as the first one! While it’s a love story centered on Lily and Kade, we also get to spend plenty of time with our beloved characters from book one, which made the experience even richer.
Lily and Kade definitely didn’t meet in the traditional way, and things were rocky from the very start. But watching their relationship grow into something so beautiful was incredibly rewarding.
Lily is 1000% relatable — she’s klutzy, naturally beautiful, outgoing, sweet, fiercely protective of the people she loves, and has a soft spot for all animals.
Kade is her perfect contrast: tidy, closed off, safety-first, and searching for a fresh start after everything he’s been through.
Despite their differences, they share so much — a love for animals and reading, and a deep instinct to protect those who matter and those who need it most.
One of my absolute favorite aspects of this beautifully written book is how strongly it touches on Autism Awareness. It offers a meaningful and respectful understanding that just because someone’s mind works differently doesn’t make them any less. They may struggle in areas others don’t, but they often excel in ways most of us never could.
This book truly has it all: romance, second chances, deranged exes, unwavering family love, protection, new beginnings, and a well-earned happily ever after
Lily and Kade definitely didn’t meet in the traditional way, and things were rocky from the very start. But watching their relationship grow into something so beautiful was incredibly rewarding.
Lily is 1000% relatable — she’s klutzy, naturally beautiful, outgoing, sweet, fiercely protective of the people she loves, and has a soft spot for all animals.
Kade is her perfect contrast: tidy, closed off, safety-first, and searching for a fresh start after everything he’s been through.
Despite their differences, they share so much — a love for animals and reading, and a deep instinct to protect those who matter and those who need it most.
One of my absolute favorite aspects of this beautifully written book is how strongly it touches on Autism Awareness. It offers a meaningful and respectful understanding that just because someone’s mind works differently doesn’t make them any less. They may struggle in areas others don’t, but they often excel in ways most of us never could.
This book truly has it all: romance, second chances, deranged exes, unwavering family love, protection, new beginnings, and a well-earned happily ever after
January 6, 2026
I truly loved this book! She was anew author for me it did not disappoint. This book had everything! I laughed and cried. It was tender and hilarious. The golden retriever MMC reminds me of my own husband and was a great reminder I appreciate all his acts of service for what they are; daily signs of his love. It’s is one of those books you come away feeling better. Read it! It’s so worth your time!
January 6, 2026
Lilly is a klutzy queen in her early 30s trying to find a man in the most logical ways: looking confused in a hardware store, getting pulled over for suspected drunk driving, and hitting them with her car. Kade is a grumpy cop new to his small town that has been a part of two of the three unfortunate Lilly events above.
After pulling Lily over and then being hit by her car during a haboob (dust storm, a new term for me), she helps Kade look for his dog while on her way to her bakery for work. After their two unfortunate encounters, they keep running into each other around town. While Lilly's is an outgoing woman that owns her own bakery and is well-liked around town, Kade is more reserved and introverted, so their interactions can come off as a little distant, but the more times he runs into Lilly, the harder it is for him to get her off of his mind.
Though the pair would seem like a less than ideal match on paper, I really liked the dynamics between the two. There was a lot of use of the phrase "when you know, you know" but there also could've been some dropping of "opposites attract" because it really was so evident here that's what made the two a great pair.
If you're looking for spicy scenes, you won't find that in this book, but you will find strong emotional relationships, great friendships and love for one another, disability and chronic illness reps, as well as a generally quirky and lovable FMC. Lilly and Kade were a fun read and I'm hoping the breadcrumb I found toward the end is who will be featured in the next book. Keeping the name out of here to stay spoiler-free, but if you're looking for a sweet, small town, no-spice romance, Something Good in the Dust is definitely for you!
Thank you so much Michelle for the advanced copy of your book. I can't wait for the next one.
After pulling Lily over and then being hit by her car during a haboob (dust storm, a new term for me), she helps Kade look for his dog while on her way to her bakery for work. After their two unfortunate encounters, they keep running into each other around town. While Lilly's is an outgoing woman that owns her own bakery and is well-liked around town, Kade is more reserved and introverted, so their interactions can come off as a little distant, but the more times he runs into Lilly, the harder it is for him to get her off of his mind.
Though the pair would seem like a less than ideal match on paper, I really liked the dynamics between the two. There was a lot of use of the phrase "when you know, you know" but there also could've been some dropping of "opposites attract" because it really was so evident here that's what made the two a great pair.
If you're looking for spicy scenes, you won't find that in this book, but you will find strong emotional relationships, great friendships and love for one another, disability and chronic illness reps, as well as a generally quirky and lovable FMC. Lilly and Kade were a fun read and I'm hoping the breadcrumb I found toward the end is who will be featured in the next book. Keeping the name out of here to stay spoiler-free, but if you're looking for a sweet, small town, no-spice romance, Something Good in the Dust is definitely for you!
Thank you so much Michelle for the advanced copy of your book. I can't wait for the next one.
February 8, 2026
Something In The Dust was such a cozy, feel-good read for me. I’m always in the mood for a grumpy-to-sunshine, opposites-attract rom-com, and Lilly and Kade totally scratched that itch. From the banter to the small-town vibes I love so much, this story had me smiling more often than not.
Lilly’s quirky, impulsive energy paired so well with Kade’s reserved, emotionally guarded cop vibe. Their first meeting (a traffic stop, because of course 😏) kicks off a string of awkward, funny, and unexpectedly sweet moments that slowly pull Kade out of his shell. The dust storm scene was a standout for me, and I loved how their relationship grew through everyday chaos of baking mishaps, questionable decisions, and all.
I also really appreciated the respectful disability representation throughout the story, including autism, lupus, and a brain injury. It added meaningful depth without taking away from the rom-com feel, which isn’t always easy to balance.
Overall, this was a warm, charming romance set in a town I’d happily revisit.
Thank you so much to Michelle J. Mann for sending me an ARC! I truly enjoyed spending time in Willow Creek and getting to know Lilly and Kade. 💛📚
Lilly’s quirky, impulsive energy paired so well with Kade’s reserved, emotionally guarded cop vibe. Their first meeting (a traffic stop, because of course 😏) kicks off a string of awkward, funny, and unexpectedly sweet moments that slowly pull Kade out of his shell. The dust storm scene was a standout for me, and I loved how their relationship grew through everyday chaos of baking mishaps, questionable decisions, and all.
I also really appreciated the respectful disability representation throughout the story, including autism, lupus, and a brain injury. It added meaningful depth without taking away from the rom-com feel, which isn’t always easy to balance.
Overall, this was a warm, charming romance set in a town I’d happily revisit.
Thank you so much to Michelle J. Mann for sending me an ARC! I truly enjoyed spending time in Willow Creek and getting to know Lilly and Kade. 💛📚
January 11, 2026
This book was the true definition of “opposites attract”.
A small town, closed door, second chance romance and no spice. So, if you are looking for that type of read, you will not find it here.
Lilly is a baker, she the queen of klutz, but she is genuine, friendly, energetic, carefree, loves animals and full of life. More importantly someone who brings disability awareness and the importance of giving people chances in life.
Kade is in law enforcement and he is more reserved, calm and a safety first kinda of guy. Total opposite of Lilly.
Loved the Character development, the friendship that naturally developed into a romantic relationship and never felt rushed (I’m not into insta love) the story had me laughing more than I expected.
This is the perfect palate cleanser if you need a break from any thrillers or dark romance stories.
Michelle is a new author to me and this is her second book. You can also note, her own development into writing and if you are looking for a new author with stories to love, please look into her and give her books a chance.
A small town, closed door, second chance romance and no spice. So, if you are looking for that type of read, you will not find it here.
Lilly is a baker, she the queen of klutz, but she is genuine, friendly, energetic, carefree, loves animals and full of life. More importantly someone who brings disability awareness and the importance of giving people chances in life.
Kade is in law enforcement and he is more reserved, calm and a safety first kinda of guy. Total opposite of Lilly.
Loved the Character development, the friendship that naturally developed into a romantic relationship and never felt rushed (I’m not into insta love) the story had me laughing more than I expected.
This is the perfect palate cleanser if you need a break from any thrillers or dark romance stories.
Michelle is a new author to me and this is her second book. You can also note, her own development into writing and if you are looking for a new author with stories to love, please look into her and give her books a chance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from Michielle and this book lived up to book 1 and then some!!!
im a sucker for anything law enforcement and the fact that Lilly is a baker and is a lupus representative is icing on the cake. (see what I did there?) 🤣
its not an insa love story he falls hard, but a natural story. guy pulls her over, she then hits said guy with her car.....totally normal. 🤣
all joking aside this novel was heartwarming hillarious and depicted real situations. Lilly and Kades story was the perfect sweet small town romance that I love to read in one sitting. If you love a swoon worthy MMC and a quirky FMC thats adventurous and a horrible driver this book need ato be on your TBR!!!
Thank you so much for the Advanced Copy!!!
im a sucker for anything law enforcement and the fact that Lilly is a baker and is a lupus representative is icing on the cake. (see what I did there?) 🤣
its not an insa love story he falls hard, but a natural story. guy pulls her over, she then hits said guy with her car.....totally normal. 🤣
all joking aside this novel was heartwarming hillarious and depicted real situations. Lilly and Kades story was the perfect sweet small town romance that I love to read in one sitting. If you love a swoon worthy MMC and a quirky FMC thats adventurous and a horrible driver this book need ato be on your TBR!!!
Thank you so much for the Advanced Copy!!!
January 6, 2026
From me this book was an excellent palette cleanser from my recent dark romance reads. This is a sweet small town, no spice, lots of internal dialog, with a quirky FMC, and touches some much needed topic that should be discussed more, which is disability awareness.
I throughly enjoyed this opposite attract story with some of the most witty and funny banter. The FMC is little chaotic and completely spur of the moment person. The MMC is one of those reliable men that you can always count on. To me he was a bit of a grumpy sunshine person. I also enjoyed the amazing message this book contains that everyone should be treated with respect and should be given a chance despite any challenges.
I will end this with the following book quote “when you know, you know”
I throughly enjoyed this opposite attract story with some of the most witty and funny banter. The FMC is little chaotic and completely spur of the moment person. The MMC is one of those reliable men that you can always count on. To me he was a bit of a grumpy sunshine person. I also enjoyed the amazing message this book contains that everyone should be treated with respect and should be given a chance despite any challenges.
I will end this with the following book quote “when you know, you know”
January 10, 2026
Absolutely Adorable!
This book is a closed door romance with some light steam between the couple. That did not detract from the beauty of the story at all.
This couple was so good together. Opposites in some ways and very alike in others. They world out so well!
Kade is a dreamboat of a human—made me saw awwww out loud multiple times throughout the story
Lilly is adorably quirky. She is open and honest and just refreshingly sweet. She has a hint of a bite to her too which is so fun! She handled his ex-wife like a PRO! Witch tried to break Lily and Kade up. That lasted about a second 😂
One character is solemn and sweet and calm while the other is feisty and boisterous and over the top (in the best ways lol)
Great read!
This book is a closed door romance with some light steam between the couple. That did not detract from the beauty of the story at all.
This couple was so good together. Opposites in some ways and very alike in others. They world out so well!
Kade is a dreamboat of a human—made me saw awwww out loud multiple times throughout the story
Lilly is adorably quirky. She is open and honest and just refreshingly sweet. She has a hint of a bite to her too which is so fun! She handled his ex-wife like a PRO! Witch tried to break Lily and Kade up. That lasted about a second 😂
One character is solemn and sweet and calm while the other is feisty and boisterous and over the top (in the best ways lol)
Great read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could not put this book down! If you are looking for a sweet, no-spice, fun read that is full of surprises and relationships worth fighting for. This is a book for you.
Lilly and Kade are total opposites. She is a loving, carefree spirit who lives life to the fullest, and he lives on the side of caution. Their first impression of each other is not the greatest, but as their story progresses–they form a beautiful friendship that is put to the test with a serious of events.
I can’t forget about Kennedy; she is an amazing young lady with autism who won’t let that stop her from keeping the folks of the small-town of Willow Creek safe.
When I closed this book, I went and cuddled up with my hubby. It doesn’t matter how different you are as long as you love each other, and the author did a wonderful job of showing that.
Lilly and Kade are total opposites. She is a loving, carefree spirit who lives life to the fullest, and he lives on the side of caution. Their first impression of each other is not the greatest, but as their story progresses–they form a beautiful friendship that is put to the test with a serious of events.
I can’t forget about Kennedy; she is an amazing young lady with autism who won’t let that stop her from keeping the folks of the small-town of Willow Creek safe.
When I closed this book, I went and cuddled up with my hubby. It doesn’t matter how different you are as long as you love each other, and the author did a wonderful job of showing that.
January 5, 2026
Book 2 but an interconnected standalone.
If you are a fan of cute,small town romances with light humor this is for you. This is a heartfelt, genuine, hallmarky story with a happy ending you won’t want to miss if you love feel good stories. When the new police officer in town pulls over Lily he comes across as mean but after a series of “run ins and run overs” he starts to come out of his shell. The character development in this book is stellar and there is a character with autism for a nice touch. Don’t miss the first book in this series or any additional books by this up and coming author. i really enjoyed this ARC, it was a fast lighthearted read.
If you are a fan of cute,small town romances with light humor this is for you. This is a heartfelt, genuine, hallmarky story with a happy ending you won’t want to miss if you love feel good stories. When the new police officer in town pulls over Lily he comes across as mean but after a series of “run ins and run overs” he starts to come out of his shell. The character development in this book is stellar and there is a character with autism for a nice touch. Don’t miss the first book in this series or any additional books by this up and coming author. i really enjoyed this ARC, it was a fast lighthearted read.
January 5, 2026
WOW. I loved this book so much.
The first book in the series, Everything Good That Happened (also her debut novel) was incredible and this second book really highlights her talent as an author. It’s funny, witty and quick. It’s also very deep and she writes about heavy topics beautifully. The characters are amazing, I wish I could meet them in real life! Especially Kennedy. The inclusion of autism was so inspiring. It’s all around a great book.
If one of your goals this year is to get into reading, I would highly recommend picking this one up.
Michelle Mann is an author to keep your eyes on for the future, I see big things for her!!! :)
The first book in the series, Everything Good That Happened (also her debut novel) was incredible and this second book really highlights her talent as an author. It’s funny, witty and quick. It’s also very deep and she writes about heavy topics beautifully. The characters are amazing, I wish I could meet them in real life! Especially Kennedy. The inclusion of autism was so inspiring. It’s all around a great book.
If one of your goals this year is to get into reading, I would highly recommend picking this one up.
Michelle Mann is an author to keep your eyes on for the future, I see big things for her!!! :)
January 14, 2026
I can’t get over how much I loved this book. After being so sick with the flu and my kids all at the same time reading this book made me feel better. It was a soft distraction from the rough days! If you’re in need of a feel good read this is the book for you. I get giddy recommending it! Add it to your tbr and don’t forget the snacks when you sit down to read because you’ll be up late reading it! Happy reading!
February 12, 2026
The 2nd book by Michelle Mann and she has me hooked. She writes such relatable characters it feels like you are visiting friends everytime you open the book. There are some characters that carry through from book 1 and it makes it feel so familiar. Finding love in a small town can be more challenging but sometimes something good will blow in with the dust. Filled with laughs, aww moments and even gives hope for love for people that are not perfect.
January 8, 2026
Such a good book.
The love shared between Lilly and Kades is a testament to the power of opposites attract. Lilly's selfless love for those around her is a shining example of how we should all strive to live our lives. Meanwhile, Kennedy's unique personality proves that first impressions can be deceiving - she's a confident and passionate individual who fights for acceptance and inclusion.
The love shared between Lilly and Kades is a testament to the power of opposites attract. Lilly's selfless love for those around her is a shining example of how we should all strive to live our lives. Meanwhile, Kennedy's unique personality proves that first impressions can be deceiving - she's a confident and passionate individual who fights for acceptance and inclusion.
January 26, 2026
So Cute!
Absolutely loved Lilly and Kade’s story. Michelle does an amazing job of writing a sweet story with no spice that is good for the soul. This book had me laughing from the beginning.
I absolutely loved that we got more of Kennedy in book 2. Also, loved how Lupus was added in. These characters are relatable and not “story book perfect.”
Absolutely loved Lilly and Kade’s story. Michelle does an amazing job of writing a sweet story with no spice that is good for the soul. This book had me laughing from the beginning.
I absolutely loved that we got more of Kennedy in book 2. Also, loved how Lupus was added in. These characters are relatable and not “story book perfect.”
January 27, 2026
WOW! i was lucky enough to read as an ARC and it truly did not disappoint. even as a clean comedy, this book was incredibly enticing, sweet, romantic, funny and honestly one of a kind!! i loved the representation of chronic pain and illness in here while not having it be so obvious. i really enjoyed both of the main characters and truly found this a fun easy read! cannot recommend enough!
Review of advance copy received from Author
super cute and warm read!! lots of disability reps in this book and it was such a heartfelt nod to different factors that may affect an individual! i enjoyed their initial meetings haha
recommend to all who like a closed door read. there is some minor language in the book.
recommend to all who like a closed door read. there is some minor language in the book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a cute book! Small town romance with some West Texas twists! Loved it! Put it on your list!
January 5, 2026
I am so thankful to have been an ARC reader for this book! Michelle Mann truly did it again with the sweetest, most heartfelt story. Such an amazing read and the perfect way to start the year ✨
January 7, 2026
I was lucky enough to be an arc reader and this was my first read from this author and was incredible! Small town romance love it! 5 stars from me!!
January 11, 2026
ARC Review
I liked the idea and story behind this book, but there were times that I felt like the writing was lacking. It was just very straightforward and not very descriptive.
I liked the idea and story behind this book, but there were times that I felt like the writing was lacking. It was just very straightforward and not very descriptive.
February 6, 2026
WOW! Such a good book. I loved the closed-door romance. Also, SWOONY MMC with a Great Dane? Yes please!! The FMC was hilarious and I loved the first couple times they met. I laughed so much through this book!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews