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Back To Briar Hollow
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Published May 9, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 9, 2026
I really loved Back to Briar Hollow!
This was actually my first ‘second chance’ romance, and I enjoyed it very much.
The story follows Rachel an Thomas as they reconnect in Briar Hollow after their relationship fell apart years ago, forcing them to confront old feelings, unresolved pain and the possibility of finding their way back to each other.
The atmosphere of this book was really good and I got really invested in the romance and the emotional tension between these characters. The author also did such a beautiful job writing the inner dialogues of Rachel and Thomas. You could really feel their pain, doubts and internal struggles. That emotional dept made their journey feel very real.
I really enjoyed the spicy chapters 👀 hehe
And the side characters were so fun and lovable!!! They really added humor to the story which made the story feel even more alive.
On of my favorite parts was chapter 28…. Wow.
This chapter added so much emotional depth to the story and I genuinely teared up while reading it. It it beautifully done.
I do have a few small flaws personally. Sometimes I found the characters weren’t really acting their age and the relationship dynamic felt a bit repetitive. One moment they were enemies, the other moment lovers, then enemies, then lovers again. I honestly felt like, if they had just sat down and communicated properly as adults, a lot of their problems could’ve been solved much faster. I really enjoyed the storyline involving the ex and the bookstore, so I was a bit sad it got wrapped up so quickly. I would have loved for that plotline to get a bit more development, cus it had a lot of potential!!
Overall: this was such a fun and emotional read and I truly had a great time!! Thankyou to WF publishing for letting me read this ARC 🩷
This was actually my first ‘second chance’ romance, and I enjoyed it very much.
The story follows Rachel an Thomas as they reconnect in Briar Hollow after their relationship fell apart years ago, forcing them to confront old feelings, unresolved pain and the possibility of finding their way back to each other.
The atmosphere of this book was really good and I got really invested in the romance and the emotional tension between these characters. The author also did such a beautiful job writing the inner dialogues of Rachel and Thomas. You could really feel their pain, doubts and internal struggles. That emotional dept made their journey feel very real.
I really enjoyed the spicy chapters 👀 hehe
And the side characters were so fun and lovable!!! They really added humor to the story which made the story feel even more alive.
On of my favorite parts was chapter 28…. Wow.
This chapter added so much emotional depth to the story and I genuinely teared up while reading it. It it beautifully done.
I do have a few small flaws personally. Sometimes I found the characters weren’t really acting their age and the relationship dynamic felt a bit repetitive. One moment they were enemies, the other moment lovers, then enemies, then lovers again. I honestly felt like, if they had just sat down and communicated properly as adults, a lot of their problems could’ve been solved much faster. I really enjoyed the storyline involving the ex and the bookstore, so I was a bit sad it got wrapped up so quickly. I would have loved for that plotline to get a bit more development, cus it had a lot of potential!!
Overall: this was such a fun and emotional read and I truly had a great time!! Thankyou to WF publishing for letting me read this ARC 🩷
May 9, 2026
Jaaaa, wat was dit een heerlijk boek!
Cozy, second chance, small-town romance met de nodige kruiden 🌶️!
Ik schrijf van de week een uitgebreidere review, maar dit wilde ik alvast kwijt!
W. Griffin, stop ajb niet met schrijven! 💜
Duizend meer 💞
Cozy, second chance, small-town romance met de nodige kruiden 🌶️!
Ik schrijf van de week een uitgebreidere review, maar dit wilde ik alvast kwijt!
W. Griffin, stop ajb niet met schrijven! 💜
Duizend meer 💞
May 9, 2026
I received an Advanced Review Copy (ARC) of Back To Briar Hollow by W. Griffin.
W. Griffin has a way with words that feels like a drug for the soul. Written in a crisp first-person past tense, the balance between internal monologue and sharp, biting dialogue is nothing short of masterful. The banter? Absolute chef’s kiss. It’s rare to find prose that feels this natural while still delivering quotations that stay with you long after the page is turned.
While a FMC returning to her hometown is a classic trope, the execution here is what makes it iconic. Briar Hollow isn't just a backdrop; it’s a living, breathing location that heightens the tension between Rachel and Thomas. The pacing of their "enemies-to-lovers-again" journey is perfectly timed against the backdrop of Rachel’s divorce and her processing of her mother’s death.
The character arcs in this book are profoundly real. Rachel’s journey through grief and the wreckage of her marriage is handled with such delicate, simple, yet deep language that it’s impossible not to feel her weight. Then there’s Thomas—the yearning in his silence and the friction of his resentment towards Rachel for leaving is palpable. The support system in their circle adds a layer of warmth that makes the individual developments feel earned and consistent.
This book didn't just tell a story; it evoked a visceral reaction. I went from the high-voltage romantic thrill of their heated interactions to actually crying over the emotional realizations. It captures that specific "Midnight Rain" atmosphere—the melancholy of the past meeting the hope of the future. It is, quite simply, unforgettable.
Overall Rating: 5
1. Writing Style & Prose - 25%
Rating: 5: Masterful & Iconic
2. Plot & Setting - 25%
Rating: 5: Ingenious & Well Planned
3. Character Depth - 25%
Rating: 5: Complex & Amazing Development
4. Enjoyment & Impact - 25%
Rating: 5: Profound & Unforgettable
W. Griffin has a way with words that feels like a drug for the soul. Written in a crisp first-person past tense, the balance between internal monologue and sharp, biting dialogue is nothing short of masterful. The banter? Absolute chef’s kiss. It’s rare to find prose that feels this natural while still delivering quotations that stay with you long after the page is turned.
While a FMC returning to her hometown is a classic trope, the execution here is what makes it iconic. Briar Hollow isn't just a backdrop; it’s a living, breathing location that heightens the tension between Rachel and Thomas. The pacing of their "enemies-to-lovers-again" journey is perfectly timed against the backdrop of Rachel’s divorce and her processing of her mother’s death.
The character arcs in this book are profoundly real. Rachel’s journey through grief and the wreckage of her marriage is handled with such delicate, simple, yet deep language that it’s impossible not to feel her weight. Then there’s Thomas—the yearning in his silence and the friction of his resentment towards Rachel for leaving is palpable. The support system in their circle adds a layer of warmth that makes the individual developments feel earned and consistent.
This book didn't just tell a story; it evoked a visceral reaction. I went from the high-voltage romantic thrill of their heated interactions to actually crying over the emotional realizations. It captures that specific "Midnight Rain" atmosphere—the melancholy of the past meeting the hope of the future. It is, quite simply, unforgettable.
Overall Rating: 5
1. Writing Style & Prose - 25%
Rating: 5: Masterful & Iconic
2. Plot & Setting - 25%
Rating: 5: Ingenious & Well Planned
3. Character Depth - 25%
Rating: 5: Complex & Amazing Development
4. Enjoyment & Impact - 25%
Rating: 5: Profound & Unforgettable
May 11, 2026
Ik heb mijn ARC exemplaar van 'Terug naar Briar Hollow' gelezen. Dit is een contemporary romance geschreven door W. Griffin.
"Het was jaren geleden dat iemand me zo had laten voelen. Levend. Alert. Gezien."
Dit verhaal heeft mijn verwachtingen wel een beetje overtroffen. Ik dacht dat het een lekkere feelgood zou zijn en dat is het ook, maar het heeft veel meer diepgang dan dat. Het is een verhaal dat vol zit met emoties en realistisch is, maar ook nog eens makkelijk wegleest.
"God, ze was prachtig zo. Scherp en onverzettelijk. Een probleem in menselijke vorm."
Dit verhaal gaat over Rachel en Thomas. Het is dan ook geschreven vanuit deze twee POV's. Ze komen uit Briar Hollow en zijn elkaars jeugdliefde. Een vervelende breakup volgde, waarna Rachel wegging en Thomas bleef. Nu 15 jaar later komen ze elkaar weer tegen wanneer Rachel om verschrikkelijke redenen terug is in Briar Hollow. Zullen ze het verleden achter zich kunnen laten?
"Ik ben het zat om hiertegen te vechten. Ik ben het zat om in brand te vliegen elke keer als je naar me kijkt."
Ik vind het een verhaal dat goed in elkaar zit en dat emoties erg goed overbrengt naar de lezer. Meeleven is hier geen optie, de personages slepen je mee in alle mooie maar ook moeilijke momenten die ze meemaken. Het zijn personages die echte mensen zouden kunnen zijn. Niet perfect, maar menselijk.
"Er was niemand anders. Niet vóór jou. Niet ná jou. Jij was het begin en het einde van elk plan dat ik ooit heb gemaakt."
Het is niet alleen een realistisch verhaal, maar met name ook heel herkenbaar. Het gaat in op onderwerpen als verlies, rouw, onzekerheid en liefde. Een verhaal waarbij vallen en opstaan letterlijk de rode draad is, maar waar het uiteindelijk ook een leerproces blijkt te zijn. Al met al een verhaal vol met verdriet en persoonlijke groei. Een verhaal dat goed in elkaar zit!
"Het was jaren geleden dat iemand me zo had laten voelen. Levend. Alert. Gezien."
Dit verhaal heeft mijn verwachtingen wel een beetje overtroffen. Ik dacht dat het een lekkere feelgood zou zijn en dat is het ook, maar het heeft veel meer diepgang dan dat. Het is een verhaal dat vol zit met emoties en realistisch is, maar ook nog eens makkelijk wegleest.
"God, ze was prachtig zo. Scherp en onverzettelijk. Een probleem in menselijke vorm."
Dit verhaal gaat over Rachel en Thomas. Het is dan ook geschreven vanuit deze twee POV's. Ze komen uit Briar Hollow en zijn elkaars jeugdliefde. Een vervelende breakup volgde, waarna Rachel wegging en Thomas bleef. Nu 15 jaar later komen ze elkaar weer tegen wanneer Rachel om verschrikkelijke redenen terug is in Briar Hollow. Zullen ze het verleden achter zich kunnen laten?
"Ik ben het zat om hiertegen te vechten. Ik ben het zat om in brand te vliegen elke keer als je naar me kijkt."
Ik vind het een verhaal dat goed in elkaar zit en dat emoties erg goed overbrengt naar de lezer. Meeleven is hier geen optie, de personages slepen je mee in alle mooie maar ook moeilijke momenten die ze meemaken. Het zijn personages die echte mensen zouden kunnen zijn. Niet perfect, maar menselijk.
"Er was niemand anders. Niet vóór jou. Niet ná jou. Jij was het begin en het einde van elk plan dat ik ooit heb gemaakt."
Het is niet alleen een realistisch verhaal, maar met name ook heel herkenbaar. Het gaat in op onderwerpen als verlies, rouw, onzekerheid en liefde. Een verhaal waarbij vallen en opstaan letterlijk de rode draad is, maar waar het uiteindelijk ook een leerproces blijkt te zijn. Al met al een verhaal vol met verdriet en persoonlijke groei. Een verhaal dat goed in elkaar zit!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ik las de Nederlandstalige vertaling: Terug naar Briar Hollow
Wat me meteen opviel aan dit verhaal, is hoeveel emotie erin zit. De auteur weet de gevoelens, twijfels en innerlijke strijd van Rachel en Thomas op een sterke en geloofwaardige manier neer te zetten. Je merkt dat de personages met zorg zijn uitgewerkt, en dat geeft het verhaal een mooie emotionele basis.
Daarnaast heeft het boek alles in zich om een fijne feelgood te zijn: een intrigerend hoofdverhaal, personages die duidelijk groei doormaken en een mooie verweving tussen verleden en heden. Het is zo’n verhaal waarbij je blijft doorlezen omdat je wilt ontdekken hoe alles samenkomt.
Toch waren er voor mij ook enkele elementen die minder goed werkten. Het verhaal is volledig geschreven in de verleden tijd, wat voor mij soms wat afstand creëerde. Vooral de terugblikken naar hun jeugd kwamen daardoor minder krachtig binnen.
Ook de hoeveelheid smut was voor mij persoonlijk geen meerwaarde. Dat blijft natuurlijk een kwestie van smaak, maar ik had liever wat meer subtiliteit gezien. Een lichtere ‘spice’ had voor mij beter gepast binnen het feelgoodkarakter van het verhaal.
✨ Conclusie ✨
Een emotioneel en veelbelovend verhaal met sterke personages, dat voor mij net niet volledig tot zijn recht komt door enkele stijlkeuzes.
🤍 Aanrader voor wie houdt van:
Emotionele feelgood met dual POV en een mix van verleden en heden. Bevat ook spicy scènes (🌶️🌶️🌶️), dus zeker geschikt als je daarvan houdt in boeken.
⭐⭐⭐✨
Dank aan W. Griffin en W. Griffin Publishing voor het recensie-exemplaar 🤍
📅 Releasedatum: 15 mei
📚 Verkrijgbaar via Amazon, bol, Kobo en je lokale boekhandel
Wat me meteen opviel aan dit verhaal, is hoeveel emotie erin zit. De auteur weet de gevoelens, twijfels en innerlijke strijd van Rachel en Thomas op een sterke en geloofwaardige manier neer te zetten. Je merkt dat de personages met zorg zijn uitgewerkt, en dat geeft het verhaal een mooie emotionele basis.
Daarnaast heeft het boek alles in zich om een fijne feelgood te zijn: een intrigerend hoofdverhaal, personages die duidelijk groei doormaken en een mooie verweving tussen verleden en heden. Het is zo’n verhaal waarbij je blijft doorlezen omdat je wilt ontdekken hoe alles samenkomt.
Toch waren er voor mij ook enkele elementen die minder goed werkten. Het verhaal is volledig geschreven in de verleden tijd, wat voor mij soms wat afstand creëerde. Vooral de terugblikken naar hun jeugd kwamen daardoor minder krachtig binnen.
Ook de hoeveelheid smut was voor mij persoonlijk geen meerwaarde. Dat blijft natuurlijk een kwestie van smaak, maar ik had liever wat meer subtiliteit gezien. Een lichtere ‘spice’ had voor mij beter gepast binnen het feelgoodkarakter van het verhaal.
✨ Conclusie ✨
Een emotioneel en veelbelovend verhaal met sterke personages, dat voor mij net niet volledig tot zijn recht komt door enkele stijlkeuzes.
🤍 Aanrader voor wie houdt van:
Emotionele feelgood met dual POV en een mix van verleden en heden. Bevat ook spicy scènes (🌶️🌶️🌶️), dus zeker geschikt als je daarvan houdt in boeken.
⭐⭐⭐✨
Dank aan W. Griffin en W. Griffin Publishing voor het recensie-exemplaar 🤍
📅 Releasedatum: 15 mei
📚 Verkrijgbaar via Amazon, bol, Kobo en je lokale boekhandel
May 8, 2026
Back To Briar Hallow by W. Griffin is a comforting small-town romance about returning home, confronting the past, and rediscovering love in a place that never truly let you go.
Briar Hallow is the kind of town where memories linger in every corner—and coming back means facing everything you tried to leave behind.
At the heart of the story is a second chance at life and love, where healing isn’t instant, but slowly built through familiarity, forgiveness, and quiet emotional reconnection.
What stands out most is its atmosphere:
* small-town nostalgia
* second-chance romance
* emotional healing after separation
* familiar faces and unresolved history
* slow rebuilding of trust and love
It’s gentle, emotional, and rooted in the idea that sometimes home is not a place you leave—it’s one you return to when you’re finally ready.
Briar Hallow is the kind of town where memories linger in every corner—and coming back means facing everything you tried to leave behind.
At the heart of the story is a second chance at life and love, where healing isn’t instant, but slowly built through familiarity, forgiveness, and quiet emotional reconnection.
What stands out most is its atmosphere:
* small-town nostalgia
* second-chance romance
* emotional healing after separation
* familiar faces and unresolved history
* slow rebuilding of trust and love
It’s gentle, emotional, and rooted in the idea that sometimes home is not a place you leave—it’s one you return to when you’re finally ready.
May 12, 2026
Overall, its a decent second chance romance. They are usually a hit or miss depending on why the break up happened and then how much the characters have grown. While I adore Thomas, even if he's a bit arrogant, I do not like Rachel. I found her treatment of Brair hollow and its people really crappy. Like shes so much better than they are because she left. It just irked me and the way she spoke didnt help matters either. The romance I think felt stilted because I didnt feel like Rachel actually cared. Still, I like the writing style and how easy it was to read. And the other characters helped save the book too, especially Nick
Review of advance copy received from Author
English below!
Met het boek Terug naar Briar Hollow ga je met de personages letterlijk terug naar het stadje Briar Hollow. Waar Rachel de stad verliet om meer van de wereld te zien, komt ze terug na haar scheiding en de dood van haar moeder. Maar zit Rachel er wel op te wachten om terug te keren?
De schrijstijl van Griffin is vlot, vol humor en ze heeft het boek vol emotie geschreven. Hierdoor kon ik me heerlijk inleven in het boek! Door verleden en heden met elkaar te verweven wist Griffin een heerlijke small town romance neer te zetten. Hier en daar liep het verhaal net iets te vlot naar mijn idee, en op sommige punten kon het misschien juist net wat sneller. Maar dit alles nam niks weg van mijn lees ervaring. En dan de spice, hallelujah! Dat was smullen! 🤭
Door de dual-POV leer je Rachel en Thomas steeds beter kennen en kom je erachter waarom sommige keuzes in het verleden zijn gemaakt.
Ik heb echt enorm genoten van terug naar Briar Hollow en vond dat Griffin thema's als verlies, rouw, scheiden en liefde heel mooi heeft verwerkt.
W. Griffin heel erg bedankt dat ik mee mocht doen aan deze mooie blogtour!
English:
With the book Back to Briar Hollow, you literally go back to the town of Briar Hollow. While Rachel left town to see more of the world, she returns after her divorce and the death of her mother. But is Rachel really looking forward to returning?
Griffin's writing style is smooth, full of humor, and she has written the book full of emotion. Because of this, I was able to immerse myself in the book wonderfully! By weaving past and present together, Griffin managed to create a delightful little small-town romance. Here and there, the story moved just a little too fast for my liking, and at some points, it could perhaps have been a bit quicker. But none of this detracted from my reading experience. And then the spice, hallelujah! That was a real treat! 🤭
Thanks to the dual-POV, you get to know Rachel and Thomas better and better and discover why certain choices were made in the past.
I really enjoyed Back to Briar Hollow and felt that Griffin handled themes such as loss, grief, divorce, and love very beautifully.
Met het boek Terug naar Briar Hollow ga je met de personages letterlijk terug naar het stadje Briar Hollow. Waar Rachel de stad verliet om meer van de wereld te zien, komt ze terug na haar scheiding en de dood van haar moeder. Maar zit Rachel er wel op te wachten om terug te keren?
De schrijstijl van Griffin is vlot, vol humor en ze heeft het boek vol emotie geschreven. Hierdoor kon ik me heerlijk inleven in het boek! Door verleden en heden met elkaar te verweven wist Griffin een heerlijke small town romance neer te zetten. Hier en daar liep het verhaal net iets te vlot naar mijn idee, en op sommige punten kon het misschien juist net wat sneller. Maar dit alles nam niks weg van mijn lees ervaring. En dan de spice, hallelujah! Dat was smullen! 🤭
Door de dual-POV leer je Rachel en Thomas steeds beter kennen en kom je erachter waarom sommige keuzes in het verleden zijn gemaakt.
Ik heb echt enorm genoten van terug naar Briar Hollow en vond dat Griffin thema's als verlies, rouw, scheiden en liefde heel mooi heeft verwerkt.
W. Griffin heel erg bedankt dat ik mee mocht doen aan deze mooie blogtour!
English:
With the book Back to Briar Hollow, you literally go back to the town of Briar Hollow. While Rachel left town to see more of the world, she returns after her divorce and the death of her mother. But is Rachel really looking forward to returning?
Griffin's writing style is smooth, full of humor, and she has written the book full of emotion. Because of this, I was able to immerse myself in the book wonderfully! By weaving past and present together, Griffin managed to create a delightful little small-town romance. Here and there, the story moved just a little too fast for my liking, and at some points, it could perhaps have been a bit quicker. But none of this detracted from my reading experience. And then the spice, hallelujah! That was a real treat! 🤭
Thanks to the dual-POV, you get to know Rachel and Thomas better and better and discover why certain choices were made in the past.
I really enjoyed Back to Briar Hollow and felt that Griffin handled themes such as loss, grief, divorce, and love very beautifully.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Back to Briar Hollow by W. Griffin
A deeply emotional and intense second-chance romance that pulls you in and doesn’t let go.
After 15 years, Rachel Moore returns to Briar Hollow to help her sister clean out their late mother’s house and library. Upon her return, she runs into her high school boyfriend, Thomas Hale — someone she believes she hates… or at least, that’s what she tells herself.
But cleaning up the house isn’t the only reason Rachel has come back. She is also going through a divorce from the man she once married to “escape” Briar Hollow.
As she spends more time in Briar Hollow, Rachel begins interacting with Thomas again. At first, their encounters are nothing more than verbal battles, filled with tension and unresolved emotions. But when a storm forces them together, something begins to shift.
Still, Rachel is held back by fear, grief, and pain. Instead of facing her emotions, she lashes out — often at the wrong person. She has closed her heart to everyone, believing that being alone and handling everything by herself is the only way to be “brave,” just as her mother always used to call her.
But what really happened in Briar Hollow?
What caused the friction between Rachel and Thomas?
Did she truly hate him… and did he ever hate her?
These questions — and many more — unfold throughout Back to Briar Hollow, a story that keeps you turning page after page. It’s a dark romance filled with intense, spicy moments, but also deeply reflective and emotional ones.
Personally, I felt like parts of this story mirrored my own life, which made it hit even deeper. I could relate to Rachel in many ways, and that connection made it impossible for me to put the book down.
🔹 Ratings
⭐ Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
🌶️ Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💔 Vibe: Dark, emotional, intense, sexy
🔹 Trigger Warnings
⚠️ Emotional trauma
⚠️ Divorce
⚠️ Grief / loss of a parent
⚠️ Toxic relationships
⚠️ Strong emotional conflict
A deeply emotional and intense second-chance romance that pulls you in and doesn’t let go.
After 15 years, Rachel Moore returns to Briar Hollow to help her sister clean out their late mother’s house and library. Upon her return, she runs into her high school boyfriend, Thomas Hale — someone she believes she hates… or at least, that’s what she tells herself.
But cleaning up the house isn’t the only reason Rachel has come back. She is also going through a divorce from the man she once married to “escape” Briar Hollow.
As she spends more time in Briar Hollow, Rachel begins interacting with Thomas again. At first, their encounters are nothing more than verbal battles, filled with tension and unresolved emotions. But when a storm forces them together, something begins to shift.
Still, Rachel is held back by fear, grief, and pain. Instead of facing her emotions, she lashes out — often at the wrong person. She has closed her heart to everyone, believing that being alone and handling everything by herself is the only way to be “brave,” just as her mother always used to call her.
But what really happened in Briar Hollow?
What caused the friction between Rachel and Thomas?
Did she truly hate him… and did he ever hate her?
These questions — and many more — unfold throughout Back to Briar Hollow, a story that keeps you turning page after page. It’s a dark romance filled with intense, spicy moments, but also deeply reflective and emotional ones.
Personally, I felt like parts of this story mirrored my own life, which made it hit even deeper. I could relate to Rachel in many ways, and that connection made it impossible for me to put the book down.
🔹 Ratings
⭐ Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
🌶️ Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💔 Vibe: Dark, emotional, intense, sexy
🔹 Trigger Warnings
⚠️ Emotional trauma
⚠️ Divorce
⚠️ Grief / loss of a parent
⚠️ Toxic relationships
⚠️ Strong emotional conflict
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Back to Briar Hallow by W. Griffin was such a beautiful and emotional read, and I feel very lucky that I got to experience this story as an ARC.
This is a second chance romance with clear enemies to lovers undertones, driven by past hurt and miscommunication rather than a lack of love. What I really loved is that you can feel from the very beginning that the feelings never truly went away. They did not fall apart because they stopped loving each other, but because life took them in different directions, which made their story feel even more emotional and real.
The tension between them is a mix of emotional depth and physical chemistry, and it works so well. Their reconnection felt natural and believable, and the way their relationship slowly rebuilds is very satisfying.
The small town setting adds such a cozy and comforting atmosphere to the story, which balances beautifully with the heavier emotional moments. And then there is chapter 28… that chapter truly hit me. The letter, the emotions behind it, and certain lines that just stayed with me. If you know, you know. It was incredibly well written and added so much depth to the story.
The spice is well balanced, with both emotional and physical tension present throughout the book. The scenes felt earned and fit perfectly within the story.
Overall, this is a cozy, emotional small town romance that I would definitely recommend to fans of Elsie Silver and Paisley Hope. If you love second chance stories filled with lingering feelings, tension, and heart, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Back to Briar Hallow by W. Griffin was such a beautiful and emotional read, and I feel very lucky that I got to experience this story as an ARC.
This is a second chance romance with clear enemies to lovers undertones, driven by past hurt and miscommunication rather than a lack of love. What I really loved is that you can feel from the very beginning that the feelings never truly went away. They did not fall apart because they stopped loving each other, but because life took them in different directions, which made their story feel even more emotional and real.
The tension between them is a mix of emotional depth and physical chemistry, and it works so well. Their reconnection felt natural and believable, and the way their relationship slowly rebuilds is very satisfying.
The small town setting adds such a cozy and comforting atmosphere to the story, which balances beautifully with the heavier emotional moments. And then there is chapter 28… that chapter truly hit me. The letter, the emotions behind it, and certain lines that just stayed with me. If you know, you know. It was incredibly well written and added so much depth to the story.
The spice is well balanced, with both emotional and physical tension present throughout the book. The scenes felt earned and fit perfectly within the story.
Overall, this is a cozy, emotional small town romance that I would definitely recommend to fans of Elsie Silver and Paisley Hope. If you love second chance stories filled with lingering feelings, tension, and heart, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want to start by saying that sometimes you just don’t click with a book, and that’s not the author’s fault. I think that’s what happened here for me. While the synopsis and genre are right up my alley, I just couldn’t bring myself to finish it—I made it a little over halfway.
I did enjoy parts of it. The prose is easy to read, with a nice balance of humour and sarcasm, and the romance had moments that were genuinely fun. Nick was also a great side character.
That said, the dialogue often felt strange to me. Some responses didn’t sound natural, and while sarcasm can work, most of the interactions felt overly stylised. By the time the romance started progressing, it didn’t feel like the characters had really connected through their conversations.
Then there’s the romance between the FMC and MMC—it was confusing. One minute they’re enemies, the next they’re not; it kept flipping between hate and love without enough development to make it feel believable. They also didn’t act their age, which made the dynamic harder to buy into. If this were a YA book (minus the spice), it would make a lot more sense.
Overall, this just wasn’t for me. However, I can absolutely see readers who enjoy this kind of story really loving it. There are some great elements here, and it’s clear the author can write.
I did enjoy parts of it. The prose is easy to read, with a nice balance of humour and sarcasm, and the romance had moments that were genuinely fun. Nick was also a great side character.
That said, the dialogue often felt strange to me. Some responses didn’t sound natural, and while sarcasm can work, most of the interactions felt overly stylised. By the time the romance started progressing, it didn’t feel like the characters had really connected through their conversations.
Then there’s the romance between the FMC and MMC—it was confusing. One minute they’re enemies, the next they’re not; it kept flipping between hate and love without enough development to make it feel believable. They also didn’t act their age, which made the dynamic harder to buy into. If this were a YA book (minus the spice), it would make a lot more sense.
Overall, this just wasn’t for me. However, I can absolutely see readers who enjoy this kind of story really loving it. There are some great elements here, and it’s clear the author can write.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely binged this, it was fast paced and the sexual tension? From the very first contact. The text messages between 2 best friends? Exactly the sort of unhinged banter me and my best friend have,love sharon. Loved the tenderness of the fmc and her sisters recollections of their mum. Loved the bookstore element,felt like a warm hug when escaping into a book calmed the fmc. The extremely emotional flashbacks were devastating but also painted a picture of what these 2 characters meant to one another and why they had a gravitational pull towards one another. Rachel running away both physically and emotionally was frustrating but i can understand she has emotional trauma so will let it slide. The spice? Hot! fave line? ‘We just exist. Together’ swoon. Lucas the ex husband? Hate him, death to him the cheating lousy bookshop stealing piece of crap! did i cry at ‘for a brave girl?’ Absolutely. The entire book is a journey of self discovery and its beautiful. In love with HEA’s? This one gets a big tick from me. I tried to change this review but i needed my notes to be read because this book felt like a journey and i hope everyone takes a chance on an indi author because you will not regret it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has all the feels, and I mean allllll the feels! There is love, confusion, tension, sadness etc.
Rachel is the classic small town girl who escapes to the big city, her marriage has ended after her husband cheats on her and her mother has passed away.
She comes back to help clear her mums house, make sure her mums bookshop is in good hands and just generally try to get back on her feet again.
While there, with this being the quintessential small town, she runs into her old boyfriend. The one she left behind and couldnt understand why he didnt go with her. Meanwhile he couldn't understand why she didn't stay. And thats where things get interesting.
The back and forth between them builds up into a pure clash of spice that has never left either of them. He doesnt fall first, he never stopped loving.
Meanwhile just when things seem to be getting back on track who shows up? Yes the ex husband
Rachel's relationship with her sister and best friend felt like coming home because it felt like my own. The banter and sibling annoyance especially!
If you like the predictability of small town second chance romance you definitely like this book.
This was an advanced copy from the author and my thanks go to them for the opportunity. This is my honest opinion
Rachel is the classic small town girl who escapes to the big city, her marriage has ended after her husband cheats on her and her mother has passed away.
She comes back to help clear her mums house, make sure her mums bookshop is in good hands and just generally try to get back on her feet again.
While there, with this being the quintessential small town, she runs into her old boyfriend. The one she left behind and couldnt understand why he didnt go with her. Meanwhile he couldn't understand why she didn't stay. And thats where things get interesting.
The back and forth between them builds up into a pure clash of spice that has never left either of them. He doesnt fall first, he never stopped loving.
Meanwhile just when things seem to be getting back on track who shows up? Yes the ex husband
Rachel's relationship with her sister and best friend felt like coming home because it felt like my own. The banter and sibling annoyance especially!
If you like the predictability of small town second chance romance you definitely like this book.
This was an advanced copy from the author and my thanks go to them for the opportunity. This is my honest opinion
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
This book is a heartwarming second chance small town romance that follows Rachel. Rachel returns to her hometown after a divorce and het mother's passing. She planned to stay only long enough to settle her mother's affairs and sell the family bookstore, but Briar Hollow had other plans for her... One of the residents of Briar Hollow is Thomas. Rachel and Thomas share a complicated history, filled with unresolved feelings and past hurts. While Rachel reconnects with her sister, nieces, nephews and the town she feels herself drawn back into Thomas's orbit.
I love how Rachel is portrayed as a independent but still vulnerable woman. One with a past, one that grieves. It feels natural. The small town vibes also add to those natural feelings. I can imagine how this town operates in it's daily life.
The book is a heartfelt, emotional story that keeps you hooked from the first page. The tension between Rachel and Thomas is palpable from the start and the journey from past lovers to lovers is a satisfying one. The book is filled with snappy dialogue and banter. The pace is fast and the book was hard to put down.
A few more obstacles in the troubles with her ex would have elevated the story even more. This part felt slightly rushed.
This book is a must read for fans of second chance love stories.
This book is a heartwarming second chance small town romance that follows Rachel. Rachel returns to her hometown after a divorce and het mother's passing. She planned to stay only long enough to settle her mother's affairs and sell the family bookstore, but Briar Hollow had other plans for her... One of the residents of Briar Hollow is Thomas. Rachel and Thomas share a complicated history, filled with unresolved feelings and past hurts. While Rachel reconnects with her sister, nieces, nephews and the town she feels herself drawn back into Thomas's orbit.
I love how Rachel is portrayed as a independent but still vulnerable woman. One with a past, one that grieves. It feels natural. The small town vibes also add to those natural feelings. I can imagine how this town operates in it's daily life.
The book is a heartfelt, emotional story that keeps you hooked from the first page. The tension between Rachel and Thomas is palpable from the start and the journey from past lovers to lovers is a satisfying one. The book is filled with snappy dialogue and banter. The pace is fast and the book was hard to put down.
A few more obstacles in the troubles with her ex would have elevated the story even more. This part felt slightly rushed.
This book is a must read for fans of second chance love stories.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If u like romance with
*sex
*raw emotion
*long lost love
*hate ( and hate sex)
*power couple
* humour
*growth
* healing
*light heartedness
* showing u how messed up life can be but how beautiful at the same time.
this is the book for you!
this is a book about a girl who left her town at 19 left her boyfriend to go to start again, FF 10 years and shes back! divorced and having to sort out her mums finances after she passed away.
but she sees him Thomas.... the one she let get away! the raw hatred between them is volatile!! ... shes not staying.... he doesnt want her to go...
this is a explosive read!! full of emotion, raw emotion, raw love, forgotten love, grief, sorrow, growth, realisation, healing.
such a beautiful story written so well!!!
this author has done a amazing job of making these characters more than characters shes planted them in your heart! they are so relatable and its a realistic story that u feel ...
I read this book in 2 days and its so beautiful this is definitely one to read and I cannot wait for more from this series!!
I need to know more about Sharon!
*sex
*raw emotion
*long lost love
*hate ( and hate sex)
*power couple
* humour
*growth
* healing
*light heartedness
* showing u how messed up life can be but how beautiful at the same time.
this is the book for you!
this is a book about a girl who left her town at 19 left her boyfriend to go to start again, FF 10 years and shes back! divorced and having to sort out her mums finances after she passed away.
but she sees him Thomas.... the one she let get away! the raw hatred between them is volatile!! ... shes not staying.... he doesnt want her to go...
this is a explosive read!! full of emotion, raw emotion, raw love, forgotten love, grief, sorrow, growth, realisation, healing.
such a beautiful story written so well!!!
this author has done a amazing job of making these characters more than characters shes planted them in your heart! they are so relatable and its a realistic story that u feel ...
I read this book in 2 days and its so beautiful this is definitely one to read and I cannot wait for more from this series!!
I need to know more about Sharon!
May 12, 2026
Thank you to the author for the Advanced Reader Copy
3.75 rounded up
Back to Briar Hollow is a well written feelgood second-chance romance with hot spicy scenes and interesting characters. While the concept of a character returning to their childhood hometown is a pretty common concept, Back to Briar Hollow is such an interesting take on it with a lot of depth to the characters. Both Rachel and Thomas were great characters and I enjoyed reading about them.
The dual POV's are also always a plus for me. I love reading about the thoughts and feelings of both main characters and I think this book did that really well.
For me the only thing that caused me to give this 3.75 stars is that some parts were a bit jumpy and vague, especially at the start of the book. For me it was very unclear who Sharon was supposed to be in the first bit of messages and the introduction to Thomas was also rather sudden. But when the story progressed it got better and easier to read.
The tension between Thomas and Rachel was great and made for a great second-chance romance that is easy to read and I would love to read more from this author.
3.75 rounded up
Back to Briar Hollow is a well written feelgood second-chance romance with hot spicy scenes and interesting characters. While the concept of a character returning to their childhood hometown is a pretty common concept, Back to Briar Hollow is such an interesting take on it with a lot of depth to the characters. Both Rachel and Thomas were great characters and I enjoyed reading about them.
The dual POV's are also always a plus for me. I love reading about the thoughts and feelings of both main characters and I think this book did that really well.
For me the only thing that caused me to give this 3.75 stars is that some parts were a bit jumpy and vague, especially at the start of the book. For me it was very unclear who Sharon was supposed to be in the first bit of messages and the introduction to Thomas was also rather sudden. But when the story progressed it got better and easier to read.
The tension between Thomas and Rachel was great and made for a great second-chance romance that is easy to read and I would love to read more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a sweet and emotional second-chance romance with a cozy small-town feel. But to be honest, I wasn't the biggest fan of Rachel
I really felt sorry for Thomas at times. Rachel was clearly struggling with all of her emotions, but she often made hasty decisions and then ended up getting mad about the consequences. Usually, I don't mind a bit of push and pull in a romance, but in this story it really started to get on my nerves.
Maybe it was done deliberately to show her growth as a character, because by the end, the
communication and chaos settled nicely. I was happy with the ending, especially the glimpse into their future one and two years later. It gave the story a satisfying and hopeful finish. Overall, it wasn't a perfect read for me, but it was still heartfelt, emotional, and enjoyable. A good pick if you like small-town romance, second chances, emotional healing, and a little spice.
I really felt sorry for Thomas at times. Rachel was clearly struggling with all of her emotions, but she often made hasty decisions and then ended up getting mad about the consequences. Usually, I don't mind a bit of push and pull in a romance, but in this story it really started to get on my nerves.
Maybe it was done deliberately to show her growth as a character, because by the end, the
communication and chaos settled nicely. I was happy with the ending, especially the glimpse into their future one and two years later. It gave the story a satisfying and hopeful finish. Overall, it wasn't a perfect read for me, but it was still heartfelt, emotional, and enjoyable. A good pick if you like small-town romance, second chances, emotional healing, and a little spice.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was such a lovely, easy read. I really appreciated that it didn’t rely on over-the-top drama or feel emotionally exhausting—it flowed naturally and was genuinely enjoyable from start to finish.
That said… chapter 28 did get me. I definitely cried there (and in a few other moments), but it never felt overwhelming. The story carried emotion without becoming heavy, which made the experience feel balanced and comforting.
By the end, I was simply happy—for the characters, for their growth, and for how everything came together. It was exactly what I needed between two heavier reads.
The romance and spice were handled really well too—just descriptive enough to feel engaging, but never excessive or forced. It struck a perfect balance.
I’d definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a beautiful, feel-good story that leaves you with a warm, satisfied feeling at the end.
That said… chapter 28 did get me. I definitely cried there (and in a few other moments), but it never felt overwhelming. The story carried emotion without becoming heavy, which made the experience feel balanced and comforting.
By the end, I was simply happy—for the characters, for their growth, and for how everything came together. It was exactly what I needed between two heavier reads.
The romance and spice were handled really well too—just descriptive enough to feel engaging, but never excessive or forced. It struck a perfect balance.
I’d definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a beautiful, feel-good story that leaves you with a warm, satisfied feeling at the end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was such a sweet read, with just a touch of spice 🌶️. More like a garnish than the main course, letting the heart of the story truly glow. The love, resilience, and emotion woven through it were absolutely beautiful. It’s the kind of story that wraps you up in a warm blanket and giving you all the feels.
I adored how Rachel tried to be strong while grieving not only the loss of her mother, but also the loss of her marriage. She wanted to be so independent, not realizing just how much of a support base she truly has.
And Thomas. Oh, Thomas. That poor man’s heart.
And Lucas… 🤬 … well, we will just ignore his existence because he isn’t worth it.
This book is for those who want a great story of loss and rebuilding, family, friends, and second chances.
It has:
Second chance
Divorced FMC
Small town
Coming home
Golden retriever MMC
I adored how Rachel tried to be strong while grieving not only the loss of her mother, but also the loss of her marriage. She wanted to be so independent, not realizing just how much of a support base she truly has.
And Thomas. Oh, Thomas. That poor man’s heart.
And Lucas… 🤬 … well, we will just ignore his existence because he isn’t worth it.
This book is for those who want a great story of loss and rebuilding, family, friends, and second chances.
It has:
Second chance
Divorced FMC
Small town
Coming home
Golden retriever MMC
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy. I am not one to like a fluffy small town romance but this one just hit different. I loved every second of it the suspense and growth they both made. This follows Rachel and Thomas, high-school sweethearts given a second chance at love. They have both grown up since their break-up and things happened in between including the death of a loved one. Yes there is a character we don't like(more like strongly dislike) and an unhighed best friend that only wants what is best for you and is willing to commit acts of violence for it. But all in all this is a very beautiful small town romance spice included very steamy spice. 10/10 would recommend
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely loved this book! Enjoyed every second of it! This book was written so beautifully! This book will make you feel like you’re in the book itself. These characters will have you feeling seen and understood if you experienced an emotional relationship of any kind. This book also talks about grief in a beautiful way and how healing can be achieved in healthy ways even when it feels messy. Rachel & Thomas’s story is one that will make you laugh, (especially during spicy scenes) feel swoony and so much more. Y’all be sure to check out this second chance romance book on May 15th! Thank you W. Griffin for allowing me to be an arc reader it was an honor!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you for the ARC W Griffin Publishing!
This was such a sweet small town romance! Rachel Hale was a wonderful FMC with a lot of emotional bagage regarding her moms death, her break up and ofcourse living in the same town as her ex again. The banter was real, the spice spicy and the love swoon-worthy. There was a lot of emphasis on her emotions which I loved! I would have liked more stories revolving the town itself, with more side characters, but the story didn't disappoint. If you want to pick up a cute spicy small town romance this is it!
This was such a sweet small town romance! Rachel Hale was a wonderful FMC with a lot of emotional bagage regarding her moms death, her break up and ofcourse living in the same town as her ex again. The banter was real, the spice spicy and the love swoon-worthy. There was a lot of emphasis on her emotions which I loved! I would have liked more stories revolving the town itself, with more side characters, but the story didn't disappoint. If you want to pick up a cute spicy small town romance this is it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got this book as an arc and I was so excited to read it! The story itself was really good and gave me a comfy feeling. All the characters (apart from 1 but you probably know who) were very likeble and also had their own stories which was great for character building. The massage from the mom really warmed my heart. The pace of the book is quick but I didn't miss anything. Another amazing book from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC read
Loved this story all the way through and the banter in it is spot on. Me and Sharon could be very good friends 😆🤣. Lucas can do one 😒 two face 😠. I've been through the divorce process and this is what made me apply to read this story. Although this one is a different story to what I went though, it spoke to me and denied it alot. Enjoyed the love story and how it developed as the story went on and the great outcome in the end 💜📚
Loved this story all the way through and the banter in it is spot on. Me and Sharon could be very good friends 😆🤣. Lucas can do one 😒 two face 😠. I've been through the divorce process and this is what made me apply to read this story. Although this one is a different story to what I went though, it spoke to me and denied it alot. Enjoyed the love story and how it developed as the story went on and the great outcome in the end 💜📚
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Omg this was such a sweet small town romance! I loved rachel and thomas and their chemistry. I loved the flashbacks and they were so sweet and nostalgic. But there was also spice and emotion in this book. The spice was so well written I felt like I was a part of it. The emotion in chapter 28 and later on during memorial day where so heartbreakingly sweet and well written!
I hope to read more of W. Griffin and Briar Hollow soon!
I hope to read more of W. Griffin and Briar Hollow soon!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Really enjoyed it!
This is a normal small town romance, such a beautiful story. Had me from the floppy dark hair grumpy MMC. Was well written and i was hooked. The characters had depth and i liked reading about all of them. My friend cried her eyes out at the end (another arc reader) i didn't, did get a feeling of contentment when finished.
Look forward to reading more from this author.
This is a normal small town romance, such a beautiful story. Had me from the floppy dark hair grumpy MMC. Was well written and i was hooked. The characters had depth and i liked reading about all of them. My friend cried her eyes out at the end (another arc reader) i didn't, did get a feeling of contentment when finished.
Look forward to reading more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Romance isn’t normally my preferred genre however, this book had me crying like a baby. I highly recommend this book you will really enjoy the story of Rachel and Thomas and their long journey to love. @author.wgriffin @w.griffinpublishing
#backtobriarhollow #authorwgriffin #wgriffinpublishing
#backtobriarhollow #authorwgriffin #wgriffinpublishing
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a lovely, sweet, feel good read.
Small town, 2nd chance romance and I thought it was perfect. The HEA and a forward look was magical and I am so pleased that was how the book finished.
If you're looking for a nice easy but good read then I would highly recommend.
Small town, 2nd chance romance and I thought it was perfect. The HEA and a forward look was magical and I am so pleased that was how the book finished.
If you're looking for a nice easy but good read then I would highly recommend.
May 11, 2026
I had the pleasure of reading the arc of this book and I really enjoyed both characters personalities. Its my first time reading a book from this author and I really enjoyed it. Would definitely read another book from her again. The story was well written.
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