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Blue Collar Boys #2
Now and Then
She kept control to protect her heart—until Life pushed her to finally let go.
Sutton Bradley has had enough heartbreak to last a lifetime. Now, she keeps everything in perfect order, convinced that if she loosens her grip on the threads holding her world together, everything will fall apart—including her.
Hunter Michaels has loved Sutton for as long as he can remember. For years, he has been the one steady place she could always return to. But now he wants to be more than the one she runs to—he wants to be the one she builds a life with.
As Sutton and Hunter begin to blur the line between friendship and something more, old feelings resurface along with years of what-ifs and almosts they can’t ignore anymore.
But love requires more than history. It requires trust. And letting go may be the only way forward.
Will Sutton risk everything for the one person who has always felt like home, or will fear keep her holding on until she loses him for good?
Now and Then is a small-town romance about redesigning your life, letting go, and realizing some loves were always worth the wait.
Now and Then is book two in The Blue Collar Boys Series. While it can be read as a standalone, the full emotional journey begins with Until Then.
Sutton Bradley has had enough heartbreak to last a lifetime. Now, she keeps everything in perfect order, convinced that if she loosens her grip on the threads holding her world together, everything will fall apart—including her.
Hunter Michaels has loved Sutton for as long as he can remember. For years, he has been the one steady place she could always return to. But now he wants to be more than the one she runs to—he wants to be the one she builds a life with.
As Sutton and Hunter begin to blur the line between friendship and something more, old feelings resurface along with years of what-ifs and almosts they can’t ignore anymore.
But love requires more than history. It requires trust. And letting go may be the only way forward.
Will Sutton risk everything for the one person who has always felt like home, or will fear keep her holding on until she loses him for good?
Now and Then is a small-town romance about redesigning your life, letting go, and realizing some loves were always worth the wait.
Now and Then is book two in The Blue Collar Boys Series. While it can be read as a standalone, the full emotional journey begins with Until Then.
435 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2026
About the author
Sara Miller
2 books30 followersSara Miller writes emotional stories full of love and light. She calls Arizona home. When she’s not in the classroom, you can find her buried under a pile of books, enjoying the outdoors, spending time with her family, attending concerts and festivals, and consuming more than the daily recommended limit of coffee. She always has a book in reach to escape to a fantastical world or a small town full of love and friendships.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 22, 2026
3.5 stars.
"Now and Then" by Sara Miller is a childhood best friends-to-lovers small-town romance where he falls first and HARD. Sutton (FMC) and Hunter (MMC) have clearly been in love with each other since they were kids. Sutton has been through many, many things in the last few years that she has kept locked up tight in her heart, closing it off to anything and anyone, especially Hunter. Sutton doesn't want to have more with Hunter because she's scared she will lose him as her best friend, so they have just been circling one another for years and years and years. Every single thing Hunter has done has been for Sutton, whether or not she knows it or is willing to accept it. He is determined to make her his, come hell or high water. My main critique is that a lot of the concerns and circumstances that arise between Hunter and Sutton feel repetitive. This makes the book feel longer and more drawn-out than it actually is. Some might say this is in service of the "slow burn," and maybe it is, but the repetition of certain conversations and situations between them felt like wheel-spinning and page-adding to me. Apart from this, I did enjoy the dynamic between Hunter and Sutton. This story is quite heartfelt! I loved how patient and resolute Hunter was when it came to Sutton. he allowed her the space she needed to grieve the things she had been through while also letting her know he would always be there for her. There was never any resentment bottled up on his end for anything, which proved men written by women are vastly superior. I've never slept in my best friend's (who is a man!) bed, but hey, whatever works for them, I guess??? There is some good banter between the two of them, but I wish I had been more invested in their pairing. I mean, *I did* like them together, but I could have been more connected to them. The stakes never really felt all that high, even with several years' worth of waiting. I guess there could have been a little more pining or yearning, which I know sounds strange since they have obviously always wanted each other! I did not read the first book in the series, but I will definitely go back and read it eventually!
Thank you to Sara Miller and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"Now and Then" by Sara Miller is a childhood best friends-to-lovers small-town romance where he falls first and HARD. Sutton (FMC) and Hunter (MMC) have clearly been in love with each other since they were kids. Sutton has been through many, many things in the last few years that she has kept locked up tight in her heart, closing it off to anything and anyone, especially Hunter. Sutton doesn't want to have more with Hunter because she's scared she will lose him as her best friend, so they have just been circling one another for years and years and years. Every single thing Hunter has done has been for Sutton, whether or not she knows it or is willing to accept it. He is determined to make her his, come hell or high water. My main critique is that a lot of the concerns and circumstances that arise between Hunter and Sutton feel repetitive. This makes the book feel longer and more drawn-out than it actually is. Some might say this is in service of the "slow burn," and maybe it is, but the repetition of certain conversations and situations between them felt like wheel-spinning and page-adding to me. Apart from this, I did enjoy the dynamic between Hunter and Sutton. This story is quite heartfelt! I loved how patient and resolute Hunter was when it came to Sutton. he allowed her the space she needed to grieve the things she had been through while also letting her know he would always be there for her. There was never any resentment bottled up on his end for anything, which proved men written by women are vastly superior. I've never slept in my best friend's (who is a man!) bed, but hey, whatever works for them, I guess??? There is some good banter between the two of them, but I wish I had been more invested in their pairing. I mean, *I did* like them together, but I could have been more connected to them. The stakes never really felt all that high, even with several years' worth of waiting. I guess there could have been a little more pining or yearning, which I know sounds strange since they have obviously always wanted each other! I did not read the first book in the series, but I will definitely go back and read it eventually!
Thank you to Sara Miller and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
July 25, 2026
4.5 ⭐️s
Oh. My. Gosh. This book. 🥹🥹
Now and Then is book two in the Blue Collar Boys series, and I absolutely loved Hunter and Sutton’s story. Don’t even get me started on Until Then, Luke and Greer’s story. I was in my feelings throughout both books. Sara Miller’s writing is stunning, and I genuinely think I found a new favorite author.
There is something so sweet about Hunter and Sutton’s history together. Their childhood friendship gave this story so much heart, and the “it’s always been you” feeling came through in every part of their relationship.
They are both carrying hurts they still need to work through, but Hunter never tries to rush Sutton through hers. He is steady, patient, and there to love her through all of it. He gives her the space and reassurance she needs while gently showing her that she is worthy of the kind of love he has always wanted to give her.
The friendships and found family are everything. These characters show up, hold each other together, and love each other through every broken piece. Those relationships feel just as important as the romance, and that is such a huge part of what makes this series so special.
The slow burn and steamy moments were immaculate. They were not there just for the sake of being spicy. They were passionate, emotional moments between two people who truly loved each other, which made them feel even more meaningful.
Now I need book three and Navy’s story immediately. 🤍
Oh. My. Gosh. This book. 🥹🥹
Now and Then is book two in the Blue Collar Boys series, and I absolutely loved Hunter and Sutton’s story. Don’t even get me started on Until Then, Luke and Greer’s story. I was in my feelings throughout both books. Sara Miller’s writing is stunning, and I genuinely think I found a new favorite author.
There is something so sweet about Hunter and Sutton’s history together. Their childhood friendship gave this story so much heart, and the “it’s always been you” feeling came through in every part of their relationship.
They are both carrying hurts they still need to work through, but Hunter never tries to rush Sutton through hers. He is steady, patient, and there to love her through all of it. He gives her the space and reassurance she needs while gently showing her that she is worthy of the kind of love he has always wanted to give her.
The friendships and found family are everything. These characters show up, hold each other together, and love each other through every broken piece. Those relationships feel just as important as the romance, and that is such a huge part of what makes this series so special.
The slow burn and steamy moments were immaculate. They were not there just for the sake of being spicy. They were passionate, emotional moments between two people who truly loved each other, which made them feel even more meaningful.
Now I need book three and Navy’s story immediately. 🤍
July 20, 2026
Thank you Sara Miller and Luna Literary for my review copy. These are my thoughts:
A beautiful and emotional story. Sutton and Hunter are childhood best friends and he's also her brother's best friend. Hunter had long been Sutton's "rock" and the person she'd gravitate to in times of need. The love, friendship and care they had for each other made it impossible for them not "to be it", to be endgame. Though the road to each other romantically was a long and not always easy one, they were tender and he, steadfast.
Sutton and Hunter buried their feelings for so long and so much happened, especially to Sutton, that she had a hard time accepting that Hunter could be "her person" beyond being her best friend. Hunter was very protective and attentive to her needs. He was the true definition of a man who fell hard and lived yearning to be her partner.
The slow burn was excruciating! You could feel the tension and the uncertainty between them - wanting more and at the same time, fearing it would be a mistake. But once they accepted that they couldn't run from their feeling any longer, the "burn was burning".
Sutton went on a long journey of self discovery and of understanding that she couldn't control everything and Hunter was ever present and patient with her in the process. He also encouraged her to go after her dreams.
The pregnancy loss (not his baby and in the past), was heartbreaking, especially for the effects it had on Sutton and her mental health.
The found family was heartwarming. Sutton's friendship with Greer and Navy was exactly what you'd hope for. They held space for each other and supported one another fiercely.
I also enjoyed the small town portrayal and the beautiful descriptions of the lake and the town itself.
If you enjoy small town romance, friends to lovers, mental health rep and found family, check this book out!
[Spice: 2.5-3/5]
A beautiful and emotional story. Sutton and Hunter are childhood best friends and he's also her brother's best friend. Hunter had long been Sutton's "rock" and the person she'd gravitate to in times of need. The love, friendship and care they had for each other made it impossible for them not "to be it", to be endgame. Though the road to each other romantically was a long and not always easy one, they were tender and he, steadfast.
Sutton and Hunter buried their feelings for so long and so much happened, especially to Sutton, that she had a hard time accepting that Hunter could be "her person" beyond being her best friend. Hunter was very protective and attentive to her needs. He was the true definition of a man who fell hard and lived yearning to be her partner.
The slow burn was excruciating! You could feel the tension and the uncertainty between them - wanting more and at the same time, fearing it would be a mistake. But once they accepted that they couldn't run from their feeling any longer, the "burn was burning".
Sutton went on a long journey of self discovery and of understanding that she couldn't control everything and Hunter was ever present and patient with her in the process. He also encouraged her to go after her dreams.
The pregnancy loss (not his baby and in the past), was heartbreaking, especially for the effects it had on Sutton and her mental health.
The found family was heartwarming. Sutton's friendship with Greer and Navy was exactly what you'd hope for. They held space for each other and supported one another fiercely.
I also enjoyed the small town portrayal and the beautiful descriptions of the lake and the town itself.
If you enjoy small town romance, friends to lovers, mental health rep and found family, check this book out!
[Spice: 2.5-3/5]
July 18, 2026
✩5
✦What to Expect✦
•Small-town romance
•Childhood best friends to lovers
•He falls first (and never stopped)
•Slow burn
•Man in uniform (detective)
•Slight romantic suspense
•Forced proximity (through a home remodel)
•Longing and unresolved tension
•Found family
•Strong friend group
•Second chances at the right time
•No third act break-up
✦Characters✦
•Sutton Bradley
•Hunter Micheals
✦Fav Quotes✦
“I’m yours. And you’re mine. Always have been. Always will be.”
My best friend. My everything.
Do it scared, babe.
I was made to love that woman. And I’m damn glad I never gave up hope that someday we’d get our chance.
I let myself fall, knowing he’ll catch me. Just like he always promised.
“You’re my best friend. My home. My always.”
✦Thoughts✦
These two had me hooked right away!
I truly adored their relationship and how they had been friends for years. It was never the right time for these two and Sutton was dealing with tragic losses, but Hunter was always waiting in the wings and ready for her. He truly was the sweetest man ever.
Sutton oh my heart broke for her and everything she went through and the fact that she held onto that secret for years.
These two were precious together, and they are so obviously end game. I truly adored them together so much.
This town & the friendship group were so sweet. I can’t wait to go back & read the first book. Also Navy & Easton👀
•ARC Read•
✦ Bookish links to follow ✦
Bookstagram • Goodreads • BookBub • Storygraph • Fable
✦What to Expect✦
•Small-town romance
•Childhood best friends to lovers
•He falls first (and never stopped)
•Slow burn
•Man in uniform (detective)
•Slight romantic suspense
•Forced proximity (through a home remodel)
•Longing and unresolved tension
•Found family
•Strong friend group
•Second chances at the right time
•No third act break-up
✦Characters✦
•Sutton Bradley
•Hunter Micheals
✦Fav Quotes✦
“I’m yours. And you’re mine. Always have been. Always will be.”
My best friend. My everything.
Do it scared, babe.
I was made to love that woman. And I’m damn glad I never gave up hope that someday we’d get our chance.
I let myself fall, knowing he’ll catch me. Just like he always promised.
“You’re my best friend. My home. My always.”
✦Thoughts✦
These two had me hooked right away!
I truly adored their relationship and how they had been friends for years. It was never the right time for these two and Sutton was dealing with tragic losses, but Hunter was always waiting in the wings and ready for her. He truly was the sweetest man ever.
Sutton oh my heart broke for her and everything she went through and the fact that she held onto that secret for years.
These two were precious together, and they are so obviously end game. I truly adored them together so much.
This town & the friendship group were so sweet. I can’t wait to go back & read the first book. Also Navy & Easton👀
•ARC Read•
✦ Bookish links to follow ✦
Bookstagram • Goodreads • BookBub • Storygraph • Fable
July 29, 2026
We’re back with the blue collar boys, and this time we finally get to see if Hunter and Sutton will cross the line we’ve all been waiting for them to cross.
I really enjoyed Hunter and Sutton’s story. I definitely wasn’t expecting to cry when I picked up this book, but when Sutton finally shared with her friends and her brother what happened six years ago, and Hunter’s response to Navy and Greer, that when Sutton needed someone, she called him, not Brandon yea I had to shed a few tears.
Hunter and Sutton’s chemistry was there from the very beginning, and I loved all of the subtle moments where they danced around crossing the line… but never quite did( but a toe was definitely on the line most of the time). So when they finally gave in to their feelings, it felt completely earned.
I also have to say that I’m not normally a fan of childhood friends to lovers romances or really slow burns, and I still enjoyed this one, so it’s definitely worth the read. I also couldn’t finish this review without mentioning how much I loved Sutton’s relationship with Navy and Greer, as well as her relationship with Luke. We all know Luke is the protective big brother, but at the end of the day, he just wants both Hunter and Sutton to be happy.Lastly, I really enjoyed the addition of Easton, and I’m crossing my fingers that he’s cowboyking88( IYKYK)
I really enjoyed Hunter and Sutton’s story. I definitely wasn’t expecting to cry when I picked up this book, but when Sutton finally shared with her friends and her brother what happened six years ago, and Hunter’s response to Navy and Greer, that when Sutton needed someone, she called him, not Brandon yea I had to shed a few tears.
Hunter and Sutton’s chemistry was there from the very beginning, and I loved all of the subtle moments where they danced around crossing the line… but never quite did( but a toe was definitely on the line most of the time). So when they finally gave in to their feelings, it felt completely earned.
I also have to say that I’m not normally a fan of childhood friends to lovers romances or really slow burns, and I still enjoyed this one, so it’s definitely worth the read. I also couldn’t finish this review without mentioning how much I loved Sutton’s relationship with Navy and Greer, as well as her relationship with Luke. We all know Luke is the protective big brother, but at the end of the day, he just wants both Hunter and Sutton to be happy.Lastly, I really enjoyed the addition of Easton, and I’m crossing my fingers that he’s cowboyking88( IYKYK)
July 26, 2026
I enjoyed this small town, childhood friends to lovers, romance. Sutton and Hunter take us on a journey, while they have clearly been in love since childhood, it has not been the right time. Sutton has closed herself off, and is afraid if she opens up to Hunter she will lose him as a friend. They maintain the friendship like they have for years. Hunter has other plans, he knows Sutton is it for him and needs her to see the same thing.
I enjoyed the banter and chemistry between Sutton and Hunter, his patience with her is heartfelt. I like the two together. Hunter encourages Sutton to follow her dreams. I like the time given to Sutton for her mental health, self-discovery, grief, after her loss.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
I enjoyed the banter and chemistry between Sutton and Hunter, his patience with her is heartfelt. I like the two together. Hunter encourages Sutton to follow her dreams. I like the time given to Sutton for her mental health, self-discovery, grief, after her loss.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
July 31, 2026
What a wonderful story of true love!
Hunter is an amazing rock that carries Sutton until she’s ready to start her healing journey.
This is sweet, steamy and funny all wrapped into a small town, he falls first and falls hard!
Hunter is an amazing rock that carries Sutton until she’s ready to start her healing journey.
This is sweet, steamy and funny all wrapped into a small town, he falls first and falls hard!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Now And Then
Sara Miller
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I am that reader who always judges a book by its cover. Now and Then stole my heart with its cover, and the story that lies between the covers is just as beautifully written.
Sutton and Hunter have the best relationship. Except Sutton has placed them in the dreaded friend zone for years. Hunter has loved her for as long as he can remember, but sometimes life gets in the way, and the timing is all wrong.
Sutton has had her share of trauma through the years and is afraid to allow herself a chance at happiness. She is at the point where decisions need to be made. Does she want a life with Hunter? Will she take that step and risk her heart, or will she set him free?
“Letting go doesn't bring chaos. It makes room for the good things life has to offer.”
Hunter has always been her anchor, but he has a life to live too. Is love worth the wait? Can he convince Sutton to finally give them a chance at a real relationship?
I fell in love with Sutton and Hunter instantly and devoured their story in no time. Hunter's love is so special, and the patience he has for her melts my heart.
Their story is more than a romance. It's also about learning to trust, letting go, and opening the heart for love.
“You can't let fear hold you back.”
Now And Then is Book 2 in the Blue Collar Boys Series. I have not read book one yet, and I had no trouble slipping right into this series. This story, with its small town feel and strong friend group, adds another layer of enjoyment to their story. I am already excited about the next story in this series.
I received an ARC of Now and Then. All opinions are my own.
Sara Miller
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I am that reader who always judges a book by its cover. Now and Then stole my heart with its cover, and the story that lies between the covers is just as beautifully written.
Sutton and Hunter have the best relationship. Except Sutton has placed them in the dreaded friend zone for years. Hunter has loved her for as long as he can remember, but sometimes life gets in the way, and the timing is all wrong.
Sutton has had her share of trauma through the years and is afraid to allow herself a chance at happiness. She is at the point where decisions need to be made. Does she want a life with Hunter? Will she take that step and risk her heart, or will she set him free?
“Letting go doesn't bring chaos. It makes room for the good things life has to offer.”
Hunter has always been her anchor, but he has a life to live too. Is love worth the wait? Can he convince Sutton to finally give them a chance at a real relationship?
I fell in love with Sutton and Hunter instantly and devoured their story in no time. Hunter's love is so special, and the patience he has for her melts my heart.
Their story is more than a romance. It's also about learning to trust, letting go, and opening the heart for love.
“You can't let fear hold you back.”
Now And Then is Book 2 in the Blue Collar Boys Series. I have not read book one yet, and I had no trouble slipping right into this series. This story, with its small town feel and strong friend group, adds another layer of enjoyment to their story. I am already excited about the next story in this series.
I received an ARC of Now and Then. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Where do I start? Now and Then is THE book if you’re looking for a friends to lovers, it’s always been you romance. The way I adore Sutton and Hunter! I absolutely loved every second I spent with all of these characters! The chemistry, all the years of friendship is seen and felt from the first chapter.
Sutton’s been through hell and for six years she’s kept it buried only letting in Hunter. I wanted to wrap Sutton in a hug. The way Sara captured all the emotions was done so gracefully. Sweet Hunter is a huge walking green flag! This man and the way he shows up. He’s down bad for his love and he’s not afraid to show it!
This group of friends has me wanting to move to Suncrest Valley to be apart of their group. Reading about this group of friends and the way they’ve banded together is so heartwarming.
I’m absolutely loving this series and I can’t wait to read Navy’s story! Thank you to Sara and Luna Literary for the arc.
Tropes:
💙 he falls first
💙 childhood friends to lovers
💙 found family
💙 man in uniform
💙 small town romance
💙 best friends sister
💙 swoon worthy moments
She’s never been able to hide from me. I’m the one person in this world she tells everything to.
“Hunter,” I whisper, catching his jaw in my hand. “You’re my person. I love you.”
“You are my everything,” he breathes. “You are my always. I will love you every moment of every day until my last breath. And then I’ll love you for eternity.”
I let myself fall, knowing he’ll catch me. Just like he always promised.
Sutton’s been through hell and for six years she’s kept it buried only letting in Hunter. I wanted to wrap Sutton in a hug. The way Sara captured all the emotions was done so gracefully. Sweet Hunter is a huge walking green flag! This man and the way he shows up. He’s down bad for his love and he’s not afraid to show it!
This group of friends has me wanting to move to Suncrest Valley to be apart of their group. Reading about this group of friends and the way they’ve banded together is so heartwarming.
I’m absolutely loving this series and I can’t wait to read Navy’s story! Thank you to Sara and Luna Literary for the arc.
Tropes:
💙 he falls first
💙 childhood friends to lovers
💙 found family
💙 man in uniform
💙 small town romance
💙 best friends sister
💙 swoon worthy moments
She’s never been able to hide from me. I’m the one person in this world she tells everything to.
“Hunter,” I whisper, catching his jaw in my hand. “You’re my person. I love you.”
“You are my everything,” he breathes. “You are my always. I will love you every moment of every day until my last breath. And then I’ll love you for eternity.”
I let myself fall, knowing he’ll catch me. Just like he always promised.
July 26, 2026
“Minutes pass, and soon Greer’s shirt is soaked through, but neither she nor Navy say anything. They hold steadfast and let me cry six years’ worth of buried emotions.”
I often wonder how authors manage to draft stories that feel this emotionally poignant. I’m sure pieces of real life find their way into every story, no matter the genre. Like the first book in the series—which had me in a full meltdown on a plane while the teenager next to me probably wondered if I was going to cry the entire flight—this one hit hard. We met Sutton and Hunter in Until Then, and even then, it was clear there was more beneath the surface of their friendship. In this story, we finally see just how much they mean to each other, and the friends-to-lovers trope delivers all the emotion. Between the miscommunication, the secret Sutton has been hiding, and the heartbreak woven through the story, I nearly needed a break from emotionally draining books for a while. But the Halloween party, the deep love between Sutton and Hunter, and the hope that Navy might be next to find her happily ever after, brings the story back to a beautifully satisfying place.
CW/TW: Miscarriage, Death of parent, Abandonment, Blood, Grief, Medical content
Tropes: Small Town Romance, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn, He Falls First, Mutual Pining, Missed Timing, Hope and Healing
I often wonder how authors manage to draft stories that feel this emotionally poignant. I’m sure pieces of real life find their way into every story, no matter the genre. Like the first book in the series—which had me in a full meltdown on a plane while the teenager next to me probably wondered if I was going to cry the entire flight—this one hit hard. We met Sutton and Hunter in Until Then, and even then, it was clear there was more beneath the surface of their friendship. In this story, we finally see just how much they mean to each other, and the friends-to-lovers trope delivers all the emotion. Between the miscommunication, the secret Sutton has been hiding, and the heartbreak woven through the story, I nearly needed a break from emotionally draining books for a while. But the Halloween party, the deep love between Sutton and Hunter, and the hope that Navy might be next to find her happily ever after, brings the story back to a beautifully satisfying place.
CW/TW: Miscarriage, Death of parent, Abandonment, Blood, Grief, Medical content
Tropes: Small Town Romance, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn, He Falls First, Mutual Pining, Missed Timing, Hope and Healing
July 30, 2026
Now and Then by Sara Miller is book two in the Blue Collar Boys series. It's an interconnected standalone. I have not read the first book, and this is the first book I've read by Miller. Needless to say, it did not disappoint!
I liked how you were just thrown into the world and Sutton and Hunter's love story.
Their relationship reminded me so much of my husband and I when we started dating. We might not share the same type of love story, but the way they communicated throughout the book reminds me so much of how my husband and I communicate. I tend to spiral, and think of every worst case scenario(just like Sutton). My husband is just like Hunter. They can manage to get us to talk to them and voice our fears. A bit of advice to all my single people out there: Find yourself a man like Hunter. He's not perfect, but he will let you cry it out, let you spiral(just a bit), and reel you back in.
Ok, I'm done rambling because I feel like that's what I'm doing, but this book was brilliant. I enjoyed it, and I'm going to read book one ASAP!
Add Now and Then to your TBR now!
As always, check for trigger warnings before reading.
Thank you Sara Miller and Luna Literary for this ARC.
I liked how you were just thrown into the world and Sutton and Hunter's love story.
Their relationship reminded me so much of my husband and I when we started dating. We might not share the same type of love story, but the way they communicated throughout the book reminds me so much of how my husband and I communicate. I tend to spiral, and think of every worst case scenario(just like Sutton). My husband is just like Hunter. They can manage to get us to talk to them and voice our fears. A bit of advice to all my single people out there: Find yourself a man like Hunter. He's not perfect, but he will let you cry it out, let you spiral(just a bit), and reel you back in.
Ok, I'm done rambling because I feel like that's what I'm doing, but this book was brilliant. I enjoyed it, and I'm going to read book one ASAP!
Add Now and Then to your TBR now!
As always, check for trigger warnings before reading.
Thank you Sara Miller and Luna Literary for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🅰🆁🅲 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
𝐍𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐲 𝐒𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫
“𝑳𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒈𝒐 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒐𝒔. 𝑰𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒎 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒐𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓.”
This was my first time reading one of Sara Miller's books, and I was completely captivated from the very first page. Her storytelling is beautifully crafted, effortlessly drawing me into the world she created and making it impossible to put the book down.
Now and Then is a heartfelt small-town romance brimming with emotion, yearning, and the kind of love that proves some connections are simply meant to endure. Sutton and Hunter's journey is tenderly woven through years of friendship, unspoken feelings, and the lingering wounds of the past, creating a deeply emotional story about vulnerability, healing, and finding the courage to trust in love again.
The book ultimately delivers a beautiful reminder that timing matters, love can be resilient, and even in life’s hardest moments, there is comfort in knowing someone is thinking of and caring for you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
𝐍𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐲 𝐒𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫
“𝑳𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒈𝒐 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒐𝒔. 𝑰𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒎 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒐𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓.”
This was my first time reading one of Sara Miller's books, and I was completely captivated from the very first page. Her storytelling is beautifully crafted, effortlessly drawing me into the world she created and making it impossible to put the book down.
Now and Then is a heartfelt small-town romance brimming with emotion, yearning, and the kind of love that proves some connections are simply meant to endure. Sutton and Hunter's journey is tenderly woven through years of friendship, unspoken feelings, and the lingering wounds of the past, creating a deeply emotional story about vulnerability, healing, and finding the courage to trust in love again.
The book ultimately delivers a beautiful reminder that timing matters, love can be resilient, and even in life’s hardest moments, there is comfort in knowing someone is thinking of and caring for you.
July 27, 2026
I have quickly become a fan of Sara Miller with this series!
I became obsessed with Sutton and Hunter in the first book, Until Then, and couldn't wait to get my hands on their story. It absolutely lived up to my expectations!
Brother's best friend is one of my all time favorite tropes, so I knew I was going to love this book but it still managed to exceed my expectations. Hunter is best friends with Luke, Sutton's older brother, and over the years, Sutton and Hunter developed a friendship of their own. That friendship slowly grew into something much deeper, but the timing was never on their side.
Now that they're finally both single, they have a chance to explore what has always been between them. But after everything Sutton has been through, she's terrified of giving someone her whole heart again. Watching Hunter patiently love and support her while she worked through her fears made me fall even harder for him.
I absolutely devoured this book and already can't wait for Navy's story next!
I became obsessed with Sutton and Hunter in the first book, Until Then, and couldn't wait to get my hands on their story. It absolutely lived up to my expectations!
Brother's best friend is one of my all time favorite tropes, so I knew I was going to love this book but it still managed to exceed my expectations. Hunter is best friends with Luke, Sutton's older brother, and over the years, Sutton and Hunter developed a friendship of their own. That friendship slowly grew into something much deeper, but the timing was never on their side.
Now that they're finally both single, they have a chance to explore what has always been between them. But after everything Sutton has been through, she's terrified of giving someone her whole heart again. Watching Hunter patiently love and support her while she worked through her fears made me fall even harder for him.
I absolutely devoured this book and already can't wait for Navy's story next!
Review of advance copy
Cuando Sutton empieza a cuestionarse el rumbo que ha seguido durante toda su vida, se ve obligada a enfrentar miedos que llevaba tiempo ignorando. Al mismo tiempo, Hunter intenta demostrarle que siempre ha estado a su lado y que algunas oportunidades solo aparecen una vez.
______
Tengo mucha curiosidad sobre E y N, por las pistas creo que se conocieron. No recuerdo si en el libro anterior se llego a mencionar quien era el padre de Rowan, ¿será que es de E o solo será que antes tuvieron algo?? Aunque con el adelanto me entraron dudas.
Disfrute mucho de la historia, solo no me cuadro que Hunter estuviera enamorado de ella y en lugar de hacer algo (por lo menos los últimos 3-4 años) siguiera saliendo con otras. Entiendo porque él no creía que fueran a ser pareja, pero también la conocía mejor que nadie y sabía que al verlo de mujeriego ella no le daría alguna vez una oportunidad.
Me alegre cuando Sutton empezó terapia.
Gracias Lune Literary por el ARC.
______
Tengo mucha curiosidad sobre E y N, por las pistas creo que se conocieron. No recuerdo si en el libro anterior se llego a mencionar quien era el padre de Rowan, ¿será que es de E o solo será que antes tuvieron algo?? Aunque con el adelanto me entraron dudas.
Disfrute mucho de la historia, solo no me cuadro que Hunter estuviera enamorado de ella y en lugar de hacer algo (por lo menos los últimos 3-4 años) siguiera saliendo con otras. Entiendo porque él no creía que fueran a ser pareja, pero también la conocía mejor que nadie y sabía que al verlo de mujeriego ella no le daría alguna vez una oportunidad.
Me alegre cuando Sutton empezó terapia.
Gracias Lune Literary por el ARC.
Review of advance copy
Now and Then by Sara Miller is a heartfelt, emotional small-town romance that perfectly captures the beauty of second chances and the courage it takes to let someone love you. In this novel, we are introduced to the FMC Sutton, a woman who has had enough heartbreak to last a lifetime and the MMC Hunter, her friend and the man who has loved her for years. While I was reading this novel, I enjoyed how Sutton and Hunters chemistry was undeniable, allowing their relationship compelling and authentic. Hunter's patience, loyalty, and quiet devotion make him an easy hero to fall in love with, while Sutton's journey of learning to let go of past heartbreak is both relatable and inspiring. Overall, Now and Then was an emotionally driven love story with a protective blue-collar hero that I adored.
I received an ARC copy from Luna Literacy. Thank you both for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel!
I received an ARC copy from Luna Literacy. Thank you both for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel!
July 27, 2026
-Childhood Friends to Lovers
-Small Town Romance
-He Falls First
-Man in Uniform
-Found Family
Thank you Sara Miller and Luna Literary for the eARC!
This was a solid 3 stars for me.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing, I just didn’t really like Sutton and Hunter’s story.
We start off with them already calling each other babe and sharing hotel rooms, but for me, there was no build up or yearning. No real obstacles other than themselves. We were 11% in and he tells her he likes her in his clothes which is not a big thing, but I just felt like I missed the build up to their relationship.
Everyone in town, especially their friends and family knew they were both in love with each other, but it felt like we were just dropped into this story a bit too late.
Along with the writing, I did like the vulnerability written in the book. Sutton has had some real trauma and Hunter helped her through it.
I will probably read the next one because I want to see what happens with Navy, this one just wasn’t for me.
-Small Town Romance
-He Falls First
-Man in Uniform
-Found Family
Thank you Sara Miller and Luna Literary for the eARC!
This was a solid 3 stars for me.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing, I just didn’t really like Sutton and Hunter’s story.
We start off with them already calling each other babe and sharing hotel rooms, but for me, there was no build up or yearning. No real obstacles other than themselves. We were 11% in and he tells her he likes her in his clothes which is not a big thing, but I just felt like I missed the build up to their relationship.
Everyone in town, especially their friends and family knew they were both in love with each other, but it felt like we were just dropped into this story a bit too late.
Along with the writing, I did like the vulnerability written in the book. Sutton has had some real trauma and Hunter helped her through it.
I will probably read the next one because I want to see what happens with Navy, this one just wasn’t for me.
July 29, 2026
This was my first read of Sara Miller’s and I was completely drawn in to the story of Hunter & Sutton. This book is the epitome of friends to lovers and it’s always been you.
Hunter has been in love with Sutton for as long as he can remember. He is a walking green flag and the way that he shows up for Sutton makes him the perfect book boyfriend . He is not afraid to profess his feelings for Sutton and show them for the whole town to see.
Sutton you just want to wrap your arms around her and give her a big hug. The past 6 years have not been easy on her with the loss of a relationship, loss of a pregnancy and the loss of her father. The one person who has been there for her thru it all is Hunter.
Now and then is emotionally driven love story with a protective MMC. If you love a small town friends to lovers trope where he falls first and hard, then pick up this title and give it a read.
Hunter has been in love with Sutton for as long as he can remember. He is a walking green flag and the way that he shows up for Sutton makes him the perfect book boyfriend . He is not afraid to profess his feelings for Sutton and show them for the whole town to see.
Sutton you just want to wrap your arms around her and give her a big hug. The past 6 years have not been easy on her with the loss of a relationship, loss of a pregnancy and the loss of her father. The one person who has been there for her thru it all is Hunter.
Now and then is emotionally driven love story with a protective MMC. If you love a small town friends to lovers trope where he falls first and hard, then pick up this title and give it a read.
August 2, 2026
Sara Miller was a new to me author and I'm so glad the tropes pulled me into this one because I loved her writing and characters. Sutton and Hunter (he fell first, hard and forever) had feelings for one another for years, but they always seemed to be fall into the right person, wrong time scenario. Sutton carried the weight of loss on her heart so heavy, and never put herself first. Her walls were high, and Hunter seemed to be the only person she turned to when life got too heavy and too much. The slow burn between these two built to epic proportions, but when they finally give in...fireworks! The way that man meant all her needs, emotional and physical, when she finally let him had me swooning hard. Found family is one of my favorite tropes and Sutton, Greer and Navy were the definition of it. I adored their bond and the way they always had eachothers backs. This was a sweet, swoon worthy, emotional read and I'm looking forward to visiting this small town again.
July 20, 2026
Another great book by Sara! I really loved Sutton, I think her backstory and need for control is incredibly relatable. I adore Hunter - he is the definition of a man in love. It was so special to see all of little the ways he showed his love for Sutton throughout the whole book and when he confesses his feelings throughout the book!? I was melting!!! There was multiple times I was swinging my feet, giggling about how in love this man is with Sutton. I also really enjoyed how the girls’ group is so tight and always there for each other. I loved the introduction of Easton as a new character to the series and I’m really hoping based off of the little crumbs that he’s going to be getting his book next with exactly who I want him to be with! I am so grateful to Sara Miller and the Luna Literary crew for allowing me to be part of this ARC team and I cannot wait for more books in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was a wild ride.
I'll be honest that I wasn't a huge fan at first that Sutton and Hunter clearly already loved each other for years and that they just weren't together for some unfathomable reason. It seemed like a weird concept but I trusted the process and continued on.
I am so happy I did! As the story progresses the hesitantcy from Sutton made complete sense.
Hunter and Sutton knew each other fully which made for some fun and very interesting moments and dialog. Sutton had so much to overcome from mountains of trauma and Hunter was her rock always there to cheer her on.
This book was adorable and sweet all around.
Thank you to Sara Miller for trusting me with an advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
I'll be honest that I wasn't a huge fan at first that Sutton and Hunter clearly already loved each other for years and that they just weren't together for some unfathomable reason. It seemed like a weird concept but I trusted the process and continued on.
I am so happy I did! As the story progresses the hesitantcy from Sutton made complete sense.
Hunter and Sutton knew each other fully which made for some fun and very interesting moments and dialog. Sutton had so much to overcome from mountains of trauma and Hunter was her rock always there to cheer her on.
This book was adorable and sweet all around.
Thank you to Sara Miller for trusting me with an advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review via Luna Literary
This slow burn had me punching the air and kicking my feet at the same time! I fell for Sutton and Hunter immediately. I could really feel Hunter's frustration being stuck in the friend zone while also understanding Sutton's fear of ruining the safe space she had with Hunter.
Hunter was such a green flag. He was protective, patient, and attentive, and I found myself rooting for him the entire book. Sutton had been through so much, and it was heartwarming to see the care and thoughtfulness Hunter showed her all the time.
The friend group was also a great addition and added so much to the depth of the story. This was 5 star read for me, and I'm already looking forward to reading more!
This slow burn had me punching the air and kicking my feet at the same time! I fell for Sutton and Hunter immediately. I could really feel Hunter's frustration being stuck in the friend zone while also understanding Sutton's fear of ruining the safe space she had with Hunter.
Hunter was such a green flag. He was protective, patient, and attentive, and I found myself rooting for him the entire book. Sutton had been through so much, and it was heartwarming to see the care and thoughtfulness Hunter showed her all the time.
The friend group was also a great addition and added so much to the depth of the story. This was 5 star read for me, and I'm already looking forward to reading more!
July 22, 2026
This was an enjoyable childhood friends to lovers romance with trauma+healing, yearning, and a realistic relationships.
Because I read book one, I kept waiting for the ending incident to happen and was definitely nervous about where it was headed. There are difficult topics of loss and grief in here, including miscarriage, that were so well written emotionally that I teared up as my own memories surfaced.
Having read two books by Miller now, I can definitely say she knows how to write emotionally gripping stories. I enjoyed the progression of Sutton and Hunter’s relationship with flashbacks to their childhood, and loved getting more of Greer and Luke.
I struggled with Navy in this one; her skepticism of Hunter and consistent berating ground my nerves a bit, but showed the man’s level of patience for sure. I’m all for a protective friend, but not when they have the potential to damage the relationship’s progression.
Because I read book one, I kept waiting for the ending incident to happen and was definitely nervous about where it was headed. There are difficult topics of loss and grief in here, including miscarriage, that were so well written emotionally that I teared up as my own memories surfaced.
Having read two books by Miller now, I can definitely say she knows how to write emotionally gripping stories. I enjoyed the progression of Sutton and Hunter’s relationship with flashbacks to their childhood, and loved getting more of Greer and Luke.
I struggled with Navy in this one; her skepticism of Hunter and consistent berating ground my nerves a bit, but showed the man’s level of patience for sure. I’m all for a protective friend, but not when they have the potential to damage the relationship’s progression.
July 24, 2026
Et bien j'ai été surprise par cette romance, ce friends to lovers...
J'ai beaucoup aimé la plume de l'auteure, l'histoire de Sutton & Hunter ces deux amis qui s'aiment mais qui bien sur attendent des années pour dévoiler leur attirance.
Tous les deux sont très touchants, et ce qui fait fondre mon coeur, c'est le fait qu'Hunter se souvient de tout, qu'il a gardé plein de choses de Sutton.
Alors oui ils décident enfin de sauter le pas, mais ils y vont doucement, des rendez-vous, des moments complices.
Non franchement j'ai passé un bon moment et Hunter oui es un green flag.
J'ai beaucoup aimé la plume de l'auteure, l'histoire de Sutton & Hunter ces deux amis qui s'aiment mais qui bien sur attendent des années pour dévoiler leur attirance.
Tous les deux sont très touchants, et ce qui fait fondre mon coeur, c'est le fait qu'Hunter se souvient de tout, qu'il a gardé plein de choses de Sutton.
Alors oui ils décident enfin de sauter le pas, mais ils y vont doucement, des rendez-vous, des moments complices.
Non franchement j'ai passé un bon moment et Hunter oui es un green flag.
July 26, 2026
A small-town friends-to-lovers romance with a blend of found family, tension, and second chances. I found this one challenging due to the main trope of childhood friends-to-lovers and the fact that the main characters wasted years not confessing their feelings. When they finally do, it happens swiftly in the first half of the book, and then it’s just the male main character reassuring the female main character that everything will be okay if they get into a relationship. Around the 60% mark of the book, it seemed complete, and I wondered how the plot would continue for the remaining 40%.
July 31, 2026
Self reflection is hard. Allowing yourself to love and follow your dreams when you're scared of losing it all is hard. Leaning on friends and family to help you get out of your own way and grow isnt weakness, its a stength. Following Sutton's journey to complete happiness will show you it's worth the pain and struggle. Following Hunter's journey of finally getting his girl teaches you to not give up. Take the jump and read this book.
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May 23, 2026Now and Then is a heartfelt small-town romance filled with emotion, longing, and the kind of love story that proves some connections never truly fade. Sutton and Hunter’s journey is beautifully layered with years of friendship, unspoken feelings, and the emotional scars that make trusting love so difficult.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
This book was so cute ! I am loving this series. I am hoping for a book #3. If you’re looking for a cute book this one is for you ! I loved Sutton from book one. Finding out her story was a fun read ! I was laughing in part of the book. The next I was cheering for her love story. Such a good book ! Definitely recommend !
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
My first read from Sara and I loved it!
Childhood friends to lovers is my absolute favorite because there is ALWAYS some yearning involved, from either or both, and that really gets me stoked. These two have a fabulous amount of yearning for each other and it’s so inspiring to see them let go of their fears and hold onto each other again.
My first read from Sara and I loved it!
Childhood friends to lovers is my absolute favorite because there is ALWAYS some yearning involved, from either or both, and that really gets me stoked. These two have a fabulous amount of yearning for each other and it’s so inspiring to see them let go of their fears and hold onto each other again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25⭐️
I received this book as an ARC, and I'm leaving an honest review voluntarily.
Hunter is such a wonderfully written MMC! He is steadfast, grounded, loving, devoted, and perfect for Sutton. She has had pain and survived through the sadness. Hunter is the perfect counterpart to allow her to feel safe enough to heal.
I really enjoyed the writing and story of this book!
I received this book as an ARC, and I'm leaving an honest review voluntarily.
Hunter is such a wonderfully written MMC! He is steadfast, grounded, loving, devoted, and perfect for Sutton. She has had pain and survived through the sadness. Hunter is the perfect counterpart to allow her to feel safe enough to heal.
I really enjoyed the writing and story of this book!
July 22, 2026
A small town romance about self discovery, found family and healing. Sutton and Hunter, I adored these two. The friendship they share goes back to their childhood and the unspoken feelings between them creates the perfect amount of tension.
Hunter is the sweetest MMC and the way he was there for Sutton had my heart melting. He had his own little ways to let her know he loved her.
Hunter is the sweetest MMC and the way he was there for Sutton had my heart melting. He had his own little ways to let her know he loved her.
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