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Wildflower Summer
Alexis Larson has always chased success, but the glitter of city life begins to fade when she finds herself struggling to fit in at her high-powered job. Burned out and questioning her path, she returns home to Willow Falls, the small town she once swore she’d outgrow.
What she doesn’t expect is to run into Grant Carter—the boy who once held her heart before she left without looking back. Their reunion is anything but smooth, as old wounds and unfinished conversations bubble to the surface. But as they work together on Larson’s farm, which is close to both their hearts, sparks begin to fly once more. In the comfort of familiar streets and the unexpected warmth of second chances, Alexis must decide if the life she thought she wanted is worth more than the love she never truly left behind.
What she doesn’t expect is to run into Grant Carter—the boy who once held her heart before she left without looking back. Their reunion is anything but smooth, as old wounds and unfinished conversations bubble to the surface. But as they work together on Larson’s farm, which is close to both their hearts, sparks begin to fly once more. In the comfort of familiar streets and the unexpected warmth of second chances, Alexis must decide if the life she thought she wanted is worth more than the love she never truly left behind.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
March 3, 2026
Such a phenomenal read! 4.5 stars ⭐️
I loved this story so much!
Wildflower Summer is a heartfelt small-town, second-chance romance that leans heavily into comfort, nostalgia, and the quiet pull of home. Alyssa delivers a sweet, emotionally grounded story about burnout, belonging, and rediscovering what truly matters.
Alexis Larson’s return to Willow Falls after chasing city success sets up a relatable internal conflict—ambition versus authenticity. Her struggle with burnout feels timely and genuine, especially as she confronts the expectations she once placed on herself. The emotional core of the story shines brightest in her reunion with Grant Carter. Their history adds depth to their tension, and the unresolved hurt between them gives their rekindled romance a satisfying slow-burn quality.
I absolutely loved the farm setting. It was filled with warmth and charm, grounding the story in community and shared history. The story line gives off the perfect cozy small-town romance vibe that’s filled with tender character moments and the steady emotional growth of both main characters.
Overall, Wildflower Summer is a cozy, feel-good romance perfect for readers who love second chances, small-town settings, and stories about finding your way back—not just to a place, but to yourself.
💕 Favorite quote 💕
There are a lot of things I am willing to die for, but this job, this city that has drained me, taking too much from me in exchange for absolutely nothing, is not one of them.
Thank you Alyssa for the opportunity to ARC read for you. I cannot wait for more of Alexis & Grants story! 💕
I loved this story so much!
Wildflower Summer is a heartfelt small-town, second-chance romance that leans heavily into comfort, nostalgia, and the quiet pull of home. Alyssa delivers a sweet, emotionally grounded story about burnout, belonging, and rediscovering what truly matters.
Alexis Larson’s return to Willow Falls after chasing city success sets up a relatable internal conflict—ambition versus authenticity. Her struggle with burnout feels timely and genuine, especially as she confronts the expectations she once placed on herself. The emotional core of the story shines brightest in her reunion with Grant Carter. Their history adds depth to their tension, and the unresolved hurt between them gives their rekindled romance a satisfying slow-burn quality.
I absolutely loved the farm setting. It was filled with warmth and charm, grounding the story in community and shared history. The story line gives off the perfect cozy small-town romance vibe that’s filled with tender character moments and the steady emotional growth of both main characters.
Overall, Wildflower Summer is a cozy, feel-good romance perfect for readers who love second chances, small-town settings, and stories about finding your way back—not just to a place, but to yourself.
💕 Favorite quote 💕
There are a lot of things I am willing to die for, but this job, this city that has drained me, taking too much from me in exchange for absolutely nothing, is not one of them.
Thank you Alyssa for the opportunity to ARC read for you. I cannot wait for more of Alexis & Grants story! 💕
March 1, 2026
Absolutely loved this cowboy- small town- second chance romance !!! So so so freaking good ! Adored this and need more asap !
March 7, 2026
I absolutely loved this small town, second chance romance! Likable and well developed characters! Someone said this book reminded them of Sweet Home Alabama and it definitely has that feel! So if you’re a fan of that movie you will eat this up!! Such a cute and heartfelt love story! Thank you Alyssa for the advanced reader copy, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to have received this as an advanced reader copy. The author wrote a story that made me think of "Sweet Home Alabama."
Alexis made a choice when she was younger that came back around and presented itself to her again later on in life. The universe giving her the chance to make another decision differently then the one she had originally taken. She was finding her worth and what made her the happiest. As we should.
The people she left behind were her biggest champions, but she just had to see that. Enter her best friend Josie and her high school sweetheart Grant.
I don't want to give away any spoilers. Just know that Grant is the kind of man every woman looks for and Josie is the type of friend who will always have your back.
This story had me smiling. There were a few parts where I was like "Let's go!" Good job friend. You wrote a beautiful book and I cannot wait to see how the rest of it unfolds.
Alexis made a choice when she was younger that came back around and presented itself to her again later on in life. The universe giving her the chance to make another decision differently then the one she had originally taken. She was finding her worth and what made her the happiest. As we should.
The people she left behind were her biggest champions, but she just had to see that. Enter her best friend Josie and her high school sweetheart Grant.
I don't want to give away any spoilers. Just know that Grant is the kind of man every woman looks for and Josie is the type of friend who will always have your back.
This story had me smiling. There were a few parts where I was like "Let's go!" Good job friend. You wrote a beautiful book and I cannot wait to see how the rest of it unfolds.
Review of advance copy received from Author
WildFlower Summer is a five-star read that completely stole my heart. From the very first page, I was hooked. I loved the strength and courage of the female lead—watching her finally choose herself, walk away from a company that used and abused her, and reclaim her power was incredibly empowering.
Her journey broke my heart and healed it all at once. Leaving the hometown she thought she’d never return to, only to come back and find the love of her life still there, was everything. The small-town setting, the second-chance love, the emotional pull—it all wrapped around me and wouldn’t let go.
I could not put this book down, and when it ended, I wasn’t ready to let these characters go. I wanted more moments, more love, more of them. This story stayed with me long after I turned the last page, and I am counting down the days until book two to see where their love—and their future—takes them.
Her journey broke my heart and healed it all at once. Leaving the hometown she thought she’d never return to, only to come back and find the love of her life still there, was everything. The small-town setting, the second-chance love, the emotional pull—it all wrapped around me and wouldn’t let go.
I could not put this book down, and when it ended, I wasn’t ready to let these characters go. I wanted more moments, more love, more of them. This story stayed with me long after I turned the last page, and I am counting down the days until book two to see where their love—and their future—takes them.
April 6, 2026
I’m so proud of my friend for writing this book. Tropes: small town romance, second chance romance. This book is a quick and fun read. I love her meddling parents gave me some giggles. It’s about following your heart and doing what makes you happy.
March 29, 2026
Thank you Alyssa for the early copy for my review.
I’m a sucker for a small town second chance romance and this did not disappoint. I won’t say too much as I’m not one for giving spoilers. Just trust me it’s so good and worth the read
I’m a sucker for a small town second chance romance and this did not disappoint. I won’t say too much as I’m not one for giving spoilers. Just trust me it’s so good and worth the read
April 3, 2026
A high-powered architect working for a family-run firm gets taken advantage of for far too long… until she finally decides to walk away. She heads back home, hoping to figure out what’s been missing from her life all along.
And surprise, surprise… the firm can’t survive without her. Shocking, right?
Suddenly, everything shifts. They make her an offer that feels almost unreal: a full year of paid leave. Unheard of. Too good to be true… because it is.
Now she’s left questioning everything. Can she really walk away from something she’s worked so hard for? Will she regret not giving it one more shot? It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity… but at what cost?
This story is a compelling mix of self-discovery, female empowerment, and small-town romance. If that’s your kind of read, you’ll absolutely fall into this one 💘
And surprise, surprise… the firm can’t survive without her. Shocking, right?
Suddenly, everything shifts. They make her an offer that feels almost unreal: a full year of paid leave. Unheard of. Too good to be true… because it is.
Now she’s left questioning everything. Can she really walk away from something she’s worked so hard for? Will she regret not giving it one more shot? It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity… but at what cost?
This story is a compelling mix of self-discovery, female empowerment, and small-town romance. If that’s your kind of read, you’ll absolutely fall into this one 💘
April 2, 2026
This is the type of romance book that makes you hope, dream and makes you analyze the things that matter the most. You can have the career of your dreams, the money, the name, but what about what you need. Wanting and needing aren’t the same things and eventually your wants can cause loneliness, burnouts, unhappiness. This is a small town romance, second chances, rekindling old friendships and memories. Alexis pushed everyone away due to the demands of college and her career. After all she becomes successful, but is that all it is to life? Alexis’s goes back to her hometown, but after a job proposal back in the city that’s hard to refuse, will she leave everyone in the dust again? What about love, peace, family, friendships?
April 1, 2026
What an amazing book! Such a great, feel good contemporary romance with a wonderful message for strength and endurance. Alexis, like most women, feels like she is making the right choices in life. Moving away, going to college, building a career in her dream job but all the while feeling lonely and missing home. She makes some brave decisions throughout this book while battling with herself if they are yet again the right ones.
I also loved Grant, the MMC in the story. He is caring and sweet and sexy!! I love how he just simply waits.
I also loved Grant, the MMC in the story. He is caring and sweet and sexy!! I love how he just simply waits.
March 29, 2026
This was a quick fun and cute second chance romance. Alexis returns to her hometown after quitting her job in the big city. Reunites with everyone and soon falls once again for her former love Grant. He never stopped loving her and still sees her as his wallflower.
April 4, 2026
4.5 stars! ⭐️ Such a good book. Love the small town feels. Alexis is power woman and I love that she makes decisions on her own time ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you love second chance romance high school sweethearts and a cozy country vibe, this book is for you.
I really loved this book. the FMC finally decided that her hometown is where she ultimately wanted to be. After going through self-discovery, she ended up finding out what and who ultimately makes her happy. She left the big city for her home back in the country. I absolutely love how no matter how long the FMC and the MMC were apart, they found a way to rekindle their relationship and they have always loved each other. This book was super cozy and brought on the summer vibes. It was a great peace of work
I really loved this book. the FMC finally decided that her hometown is where she ultimately wanted to be. After going through self-discovery, she ended up finding out what and who ultimately makes her happy. She left the big city for her home back in the country. I absolutely love how no matter how long the FMC and the MMC were apart, they found a way to rekindle their relationship and they have always loved each other. This book was super cozy and brought on the summer vibes. It was a great peace of work
April 28, 2026
This was a fun read. It was the perfect example of how hustle culture slowly drains our mental health. The love story was great, but this book was really about Alexis' journey of self discovery. Was I screaming at my E-reader at about 80%? Yes, but the ending pays off. This is the perfect summer read and serves as an example for us as people to slow down and focus on doing things that make us happy.
April 30, 2026
Love
Alexis is a very busy business woman.. Grant is helping Alexis's parents run the farm. They used to date. Do they have feelings for each other or will Alexis go back to the city. I highly recommend this.
Alexis is a very busy business woman.. Grant is helping Alexis's parents run the farm. They used to date. Do they have feelings for each other or will Alexis go back to the city. I highly recommend this.
April 4, 2026
This is my first book by Alyssa. I thoroughly enjoyed the story. So many great moments. I laughed and cried. Looking forward to reading more books by her in the future. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by bookfunnel.
April 12, 2026
So, so, so cute!!! I haven’t read very many cowboy romances but I’m starting to fall in love with this subgenre! It’s absolutely adorable. I loved everything about this story and I would definitely recommend it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was such a cute read. I can’t get enough of Lexi and Grant and I need more noooooow.
Alexis is overworked, overwhelmed and tired of getting walked all over in her career. She’s had enough, hoping a trip back home to her small town will help clear her head. She didn’t expect to see her high school boyfriend, nor did she intend on getting close to him again. Now she’s left with two paths, does she go back to the city and reclaim herself and the job she so painstakingly gave everything up for, or does she finally give the love she wanted a chance to blossom?
This little small town romance, has some rom com vibes for sure. It’s cute, it’s funny, it pulls on your heart strings, and has you wanting more. It had me giggling, kicking my feet, and laughing at the absolute absurdity Alexis’ mom pulls/says. Her parents are hands down my favorite and just so stinkin adorable. While not a total cliffhanger because there is a really good ending to the story being told, you’re left WAITING IMPATIENTLY to find out how Alexis and Grant’s relationship blossoms. Also, I have to say, that I am absolutely thankful that there was no third act break up. I can’t stand those sometimes 😭
Thank you Alyssa, for trusting me with your work and heart and allowing me to read early. I can’t wait to see where you take their story 🫶🏻 PS, I think Josie may be looking for love? 👀 (aka I would 100 percent read whole story about Josie)
This was such a cute read. I can’t get enough of Lexi and Grant and I need more noooooow.
Alexis is overworked, overwhelmed and tired of getting walked all over in her career. She’s had enough, hoping a trip back home to her small town will help clear her head. She didn’t expect to see her high school boyfriend, nor did she intend on getting close to him again. Now she’s left with two paths, does she go back to the city and reclaim herself and the job she so painstakingly gave everything up for, or does she finally give the love she wanted a chance to blossom?
This little small town romance, has some rom com vibes for sure. It’s cute, it’s funny, it pulls on your heart strings, and has you wanting more. It had me giggling, kicking my feet, and laughing at the absolute absurdity Alexis’ mom pulls/says. Her parents are hands down my favorite and just so stinkin adorable. While not a total cliffhanger because there is a really good ending to the story being told, you’re left WAITING IMPATIENTLY to find out how Alexis and Grant’s relationship blossoms. Also, I have to say, that I am absolutely thankful that there was no third act break up. I can’t stand those sometimes 😭
Thank you Alyssa, for trusting me with your work and heart and allowing me to read early. I can’t wait to see where you take their story 🫶🏻 PS, I think Josie may be looking for love? 👀 (aka I would 100 percent read whole story about Josie)
August 21, 2026
This novella feels like finding a wildflower tucked in between the pages of your favorite book: sweet, surprising, and just mischievous enough to make you smile.
Alexis and Grant carry the story with an easy, familiar chemistry, the kind built from shared history, old hurts, and the kind of affection that never fully disappears even when life pulls two people in different directions. Their dynamic is tender, believable, and quietly compelling, which is exactly why it’s impossible not to want more time with them.
Alyssa J writes their reconnection with a soft, nostalgic touch: small moments that matter, and conversations that skim the edges of what was left unsaid. The novella format keeps the story tight and breezy, but it also leaves you wishing for a few extra chapters to linger with Alexis and Grant — to, see more of their growth, their healing, and the life they might build if given just a little more space.
Still, what’s here is lovely. It’s a story about coming home, about rediscovering what once felt safe, and about realizing that sometimes the love you left behind is the one that still fits. “Wildflower Summer” blooms quietly, offering a soft, hopeful reminder that second chances don’t have to be grand to be meaningful, they just have to be honest.
Alexis and Grant carry the story with an easy, familiar chemistry, the kind built from shared history, old hurts, and the kind of affection that never fully disappears even when life pulls two people in different directions. Their dynamic is tender, believable, and quietly compelling, which is exactly why it’s impossible not to want more time with them.
Alyssa J writes their reconnection with a soft, nostalgic touch: small moments that matter, and conversations that skim the edges of what was left unsaid. The novella format keeps the story tight and breezy, but it also leaves you wishing for a few extra chapters to linger with Alexis and Grant — to, see more of their growth, their healing, and the life they might build if given just a little more space.
Still, what’s here is lovely. It’s a story about coming home, about rediscovering what once felt safe, and about realizing that sometimes the love you left behind is the one that still fits. “Wildflower Summer” blooms quietly, offering a soft, hopeful reminder that second chances don’t have to be grand to be meaningful, they just have to be honest.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a heartfelt, homey read. The kind of book you want to read when you want that warm and cozy hallmark moments. I got all the wonderful small town, farm life and loving family nostalgia when reading this.
This story is strongly based on the FMC being burnt out and rediscovering herself. Is the city life for her or her hometown?
Along the way she is reunited with her high school love and the tension coils from the pages between them. These characters have amazing chemistry and with every building moment between them you see the history burning between them. The FMC is a firecracker with such strength that amazes me and grows so much from the beginning to end and by the end I was so dang proud of her. The MMC had me swooning with his patience, charismatic side and only wanting what was best for the FMC.
This was such a fun read that was cozy, heart warming, and relatable. If you enjoy those small town romances with second chances this one is a great one. But get those snacks ready because it’s that binge worthy read you’re going to want to snuggle up and not put down.
This story is strongly based on the FMC being burnt out and rediscovering herself. Is the city life for her or her hometown?
Along the way she is reunited with her high school love and the tension coils from the pages between them. These characters have amazing chemistry and with every building moment between them you see the history burning between them. The FMC is a firecracker with such strength that amazes me and grows so much from the beginning to end and by the end I was so dang proud of her. The MMC had me swooning with his patience, charismatic side and only wanting what was best for the FMC.
This was such a fun read that was cozy, heart warming, and relatable. If you enjoy those small town romances with second chances this one is a great one. But get those snacks ready because it’s that binge worthy read you’re going to want to snuggle up and not put down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 star read for me!!!
I loved this story. I really felt for Alexis. Her feeling so overwhelmed and underappreciated at work she just quits and goes home. As she takes the time to find her peace, she faces the hard decision of going back to doing what she loves in hopes she actually is heard about her concerns at work or stay where she feels the most supported. With her parents, Grant (the ex who she still cares for), and Josie (the best friend she fell out of contact with but welcomes her back with open arms).
Grant, the man he is. So patient and understanding while also making sure that Alexis understands how she hurt him the first time. I love a good second chance romance.
Alexis really does learn so much about herself during her time off of work and what she wants for her future. I can't wait to see if there will be more to her story... Or maybe Josie!
I loved this story. I really felt for Alexis. Her feeling so overwhelmed and underappreciated at work she just quits and goes home. As she takes the time to find her peace, she faces the hard decision of going back to doing what she loves in hopes she actually is heard about her concerns at work or stay where she feels the most supported. With her parents, Grant (the ex who she still cares for), and Josie (the best friend she fell out of contact with but welcomes her back with open arms).
Grant, the man he is. So patient and understanding while also making sure that Alexis understands how she hurt him the first time. I love a good second chance romance.
Alexis really does learn so much about herself during her time off of work and what she wants for her future. I can't wait to see if there will be more to her story... Or maybe Josie!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25 ⭐
This story is not only sweet and relatable, but it is a reminder that fulfilling your dreams might not fulfill your soul. It it reminds us that the people who love and support us will do so, even if your version for your life doesn't align with theirs .
It reminds us that everyone needs someone. And that our actions affect more than ourselves.
It's a reminder that the choices we make may lead us in one direction towards achieving our goals but they can change, and that is ok. There is no set script or diagram for our lives. Our ideals can shift, our perspectives can mature, and that there is no shame in admitting what was once important to us, no longer is.
I really enjoyed my time with these characters. They felt like friends, they felt like home.
This story is not only sweet and relatable, but it is a reminder that fulfilling your dreams might not fulfill your soul. It it reminds us that the people who love and support us will do so, even if your version for your life doesn't align with theirs .
It reminds us that everyone needs someone. And that our actions affect more than ourselves.
It's a reminder that the choices we make may lead us in one direction towards achieving our goals but they can change, and that is ok. There is no set script or diagram for our lives. Our ideals can shift, our perspectives can mature, and that there is no shame in admitting what was once important to us, no longer is.
I really enjoyed my time with these characters. They felt like friends, they felt like home.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a cute story about starting over & second chances 🥹
It’s never too late for either.
Honestly I related to Alexis a little too hard - overworked and undervalued
I can only hope to be as brave as her one day and just up and quit my job lmao
Grant, her high school sweetheart, bless him
The man waited 9 years for her
And after so long he was still patient and understanding and willing to work with whatever she had to offer, even if it was only her friendship 😩
Alexis’ mom was such a puppet master 😂
And Greg… dear god the man cant take a hint
Thank you Alyssa for sharing your debut with us!! I cant wait to see what you do next
It’s never too late for either.
Honestly I related to Alexis a little too hard - overworked and undervalued
I can only hope to be as brave as her one day and just up and quit my job lmao
Grant, her high school sweetheart, bless him
The man waited 9 years for her
And after so long he was still patient and understanding and willing to work with whatever she had to offer, even if it was only her friendship 😩
Alexis’ mom was such a puppet master 😂
And Greg… dear god the man cant take a hint
Thank you Alyssa for sharing your debut with us!! I cant wait to see what you do next
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a wholesome slow burn. Alexis is a workaholic but not really because she wants to be she kind of just gets stuck working a lot in her career. She works in the city and is an architect who happens to be very good at what she does. When circumstances force her back home she reconnects with Grant a high school sweetheart so to speak who happens to be back in town as well. The chemistry between them is undeniable. The slow burn is maddening for someone like me who wants to jump right in lol but so sweet. I can’t wait to see where Alexis and Grant finally end up. This definitely left me wanting more in all the best ways.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
This was such a cute, down to earth, small town romance! The simplicity of it was refreshing and felt like a warm hug!
I love when characters humble themselves to think that maybe what they thought they wanted in life, wasn't actually what they expected, and what they craved and what they needed was always waiting for them in the place they grew up. And we also LOVE men in wrangler jeans who know how to fix stuff, care for animals, and make us feel at home.
To me, that's winning.
I can't wait to read more from Alyssa!!
This was such a cute, down to earth, small town romance! The simplicity of it was refreshing and felt like a warm hug!
I love when characters humble themselves to think that maybe what they thought they wanted in life, wasn't actually what they expected, and what they craved and what they needed was always waiting for them in the place they grew up. And we also LOVE men in wrangler jeans who know how to fix stuff, care for animals, and make us feel at home.
To me, that's winning.
I can't wait to read more from Alyssa!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wildflower Summer has me wanting to pack up and move to Willow Falls like yesterday. This is such a lovely, second-chance story that sets an incredible scene for what is to come in the future. This is a perfect example of how sometimes doing something that feels so overwhelming and out of character for you, can lead to even better things than you could have anticipated. I cannot wait for the next book to take me back to Willow Falls and my bestie Josie.
Thank you Alyssa J for trusting me with your work and giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in return for my honest review.
Thank you Alyssa J for trusting me with your work and giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in return for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely LOVED this book. It’s been awhile since I’ve read a pure just love story. But this one was so amazing. I felt connected to Alexis as another 30+ year old who at one point let life just kind of blindside me and flow right on by. But who doesn’t love a second chance love story in a small town setting? I know I’m a sucker for the butterflies. It’s always a nostalgic feeling witnessing the pure love depicted in a story like this. ❤️❤️❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story is around 4.25 stars for me! This is just the fluffy romance I needed in my life at this moment! I loved the relationship dynamics, the small town (giving Gilmore Girls vibes), and our main character was easy for me to relate to!
If you want a short and sweet romance read, I say give this one a try! It's a great way to support and indie author as well!
Thank you to the author for my advanced reader copy!
If you want a short and sweet romance read, I say give this one a try! It's a great way to support and indie author as well!
Thank you to the author for my advanced reader copy!
June 16, 2026
I absolutely loved this story! It made me feel cozy and just happy. It’s a small town romance where Alexis leaves home to go to the big city for a big career, but finds herself unhappy and returns home. She runs into her high school boyfriend and finds out he is working at her parents farm.
It’s the perfect story! It was refreshing and gave you all the emotions! I def recommend reading this!
It’s the perfect story! It was refreshing and gave you all the emotions! I def recommend reading this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I receive an ARC for this and I’m so happy I did. This was seriously so cute and warm and such a fun read! The characters are so easy to connect with and love from the start with fun personalities that are very fun to learn about. So so sweet and highly recommended!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews