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Wings of Two Duet #1
This Side
We bring each other peace in our world of mayhem, just like the white bird that flies gracefully in the sky.
The only world they know is the one in the trailer park of Willowhart, West Virginia. Days are spent under those loblolly pine trees and dreaming about a brighter future. Nights are spent mending each other’s broken hearts, and sometimes, even the physical wounds have to be tended to.
But where they lost in wealth and a decent home, they won in companionship. Despite the odds, Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett have one person beside them who promises a different life beyond the hills.
At night, Brant listens outside the window of Callie’s trailer, waiting for the inevitable shouts and hollers. He may be younger and weaker than the man he’s up against, but Brant’s heart is twice as strong. It beats for two.
That’s the thing about a pair of doves—they never let the other fly alone.
But even some of the darkest places have pockets of light. As much heartache Callie Rae and Brant are forced to endure, they’re granted moments filled with smiles, laughter, and eventually raging teenage hormones.
Emotions begin to spiral. Typical banter grows heated. And before Callie and Brant know it, their lifelong friendship blossoms into something neither of them is prepared for.
That’s the thing about young love—it’s innocent and intense. Unraveling at lightning speed until it’s too much to bundle up and take with you.
Because sometimes, the side you’re on might just be too painful to keep.
The only world they know is the one in the trailer park of Willowhart, West Virginia. Days are spent under those loblolly pine trees and dreaming about a brighter future. Nights are spent mending each other’s broken hearts, and sometimes, even the physical wounds have to be tended to.
But where they lost in wealth and a decent home, they won in companionship. Despite the odds, Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett have one person beside them who promises a different life beyond the hills.
At night, Brant listens outside the window of Callie’s trailer, waiting for the inevitable shouts and hollers. He may be younger and weaker than the man he’s up against, but Brant’s heart is twice as strong. It beats for two.
That’s the thing about a pair of doves—they never let the other fly alone.
But even some of the darkest places have pockets of light. As much heartache Callie Rae and Brant are forced to endure, they’re granted moments filled with smiles, laughter, and eventually raging teenage hormones.
Emotions begin to spiral. Typical banter grows heated. And before Callie and Brant know it, their lifelong friendship blossoms into something neither of them is prepared for.
That’s the thing about young love—it’s innocent and intense. Unraveling at lightning speed until it’s too much to bundle up and take with you.
Because sometimes, the side you’re on might just be too painful to keep.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 9, 2026
About the author
Drea Scott
5 books167 followersDrea has been a hopeless romantic for as long as she can remember. She became an avid romance reader in 2015 when the Fifty Shades of Grey craze broke out, and never looked back since.
Stories written by Jennifer Hartmann and Mia Sheridan are her absolute favorite, inspiring her to give writing a shot in 2022 when she settled down in her career. No, writing is not her full-time job, but a side project for now.
With the relentless support of her husband, Drea found a passion that's been buried for quite some time. Her only wish is to touch people the way romance books have impacted her. Full-circle moments, symbols, love that crawls through the trenches....give her all the high stakes.
But as emotional are her stories may be, Drea will never give up the spicy or smutty bits. NEVER. You'll always find an explosive slow burn in any book she writes.
Do you share the same tastes? We hope you'll follow along on this little journey that hopefully leads to bigger pastures.
Stories written by Jennifer Hartmann and Mia Sheridan are her absolute favorite, inspiring her to give writing a shot in 2022 when she settled down in her career. No, writing is not her full-time job, but a side project for now.
With the relentless support of her husband, Drea found a passion that's been buried for quite some time. Her only wish is to touch people the way romance books have impacted her. Full-circle moments, symbols, love that crawls through the trenches....give her all the high stakes.
But as emotional are her stories may be, Drea will never give up the spicy or smutty bits. NEVER. You'll always find an explosive slow burn in any book she writes.
Do you share the same tastes? We hope you'll follow along on this little journey that hopefully leads to bigger pastures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
July 17, 2026
DREA, I NEED BOOK TWO IMMEDIATELY😭😭💔💔!!!!!!! REVIEW TO COME❤❤!!!!!!!!!
🧡✨🌻I'm so ready to be emotionally damaged🧡✨🌻!!!!!!!!
🧡✨🌻I'm so ready to be emotionally damaged🧡✨🌻!!!!!!!!
August 5, 2026
“It’s a pity we won’t get infinite lifetimes together. But for the one we do get, we’ll surely live like we’re dying tomorrow.”
on repeat 𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ♪ˎˊ˗
“ᴡʜᴇɴ ɪ ɢᴇᴛ ᴡʜᴇʀᴇ ɪ’ᴍ ɢᴏɪɴɢ” x ʙʀᴀᴅ ᴘᴀɪsʟᴇʏ ꜰᴛ. ᴅᴏʟʟʏ ᴘᴀʀᴛᴏɴ
0:11 ─♥─────────── 4:07
This story follows two kids who grow up in the same trailer park, clinging to each other through the kind of childhood no one should ever have to survive. As the years pass, their lifelong friendship slowly transforms into first love while they both dream of making it to “the other side” of the lives they’ve always known.
I am genuinely not okay after this book.
I don’t even know how to explain the kind of heartbreak this story made me feel because it wasn’t just sad… it was devastating. 😭 I cried for these kids. I spent so many chapters watching them carry pain that no child should ever have to carry. Every little victory felt precious because it came after so much hurt 🥺
Brant and Callie completely owned my heart. Watching their relationship grow from two eight yr olds finding comfort in one another into something deeper over the years was beautiful in the most painfully slow way possible. The slow burn was EVERYTHING. The yearning. The tension. The tiny moments that somehow meant more than grand declarations. They became each other’s safe place long before they became anything else, and I don’t think I’ll ever recover from that. 😭
Callie’s story regarding her dad was incredibly difficult to read, but Brant’s own loneliness and neglect broke me just as much. Neither of them had the childhood they deserved, so they quietly became the home neither one had. Even when the world around them was full of chaos, they kept choosing each other over and over again.
One small thing that caught me off guard at first was Callie continuing to refer to her father as “Daddy.” Initially it felt jarring, but the deeper I got into the story, the more it made heartbreaking sense. She was still seeing him through the lens of a child who had been conditioned to depend on him, regardless of what he put her through. That choice ended up feeling painfully authentic rather than out of place 🥲
The timeline jumps confused me a little in the beginning, but once I realized the pattern, it became really easy to follow. Honestly i had no idea just how invested I was going to become. I knew this was a duet, but absolutely NOTHING prepared me for that ending. I need book two immediately because that cliffhanger left me emotionally unwell.
The symbolism with the doves is smthing i loved. Doves don’t fly through grief alone—they move together, side by side—and that’s exactly who Brant and Callie were for each other. Every time one of them started falling apart, the other was there to help carry the weight. They weren’t each other’s escape from the darkness… they were the reason surviving it felt possible🥺🫶🏼
This book is about surviving the side of life that hurts. Holding onto someone while you’re waiting and hoping you’ll eventually make it to the other side. It’s messy, it’s raw, it’s relentlessly heartbreaking, but somehow it’s also filled with this quiet, unwavering hope that refuses to let go.
I need book 2 ASAP
favorite quotes ↓
“His presence is like a quilt over my heart. Warming the parts that are vacant and cold.”
“Instead of shying away from my scars, he begs me to show them to him. He’s the remedy to my broken heart. The glue sealing the cracks of every severed piece. My hero.”
“I realize that our losses could never add up to the sum of our love. Many people are served unconditional love, but we built it. Our love doesn’t know boundaries. It only knows how to accept each other. In all of our forms.”
“Love never withers when it’s true. When it’s true love, it transcends distance. Physical space doesn’t determine the way love makes us feel, or the way it shapes us.”
“I don’t ever want you to forget me, Callie. And even though we’re excited to see the other side, and we’re eager for a fresh start, don’t ever forget how we got there. Always remember us. This side.”
things to know about the book ↓
🕊️ childhood best friends
🕊️ first love
🕊️ protective MMC
🕊️ childhood trauma
🕊️ bittersweet romance
🕊️ “us against the world”
🕊️ so much angst 😭
🕊️ strong friendship
🕊️ slowburn
🕊️ dual timeline
🕊️ dual POV
swearing: yes
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
→ chapters: 7, 11, 18, 20, 23, 25
Thank you Luna Literary, Love Notes PR, publisher & author for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
→ Just a quick content note for readers: If you’re considering picking this one up, please read the trigger warnings first. This book contains extremely heavy topics that are depicted on page, and it absolutely has the potential to be deeply triggering.
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
─────────
・❥・⁀➷ 🌻 🕊️ 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
july 10th- this blurb has me by the throat ngl
on repeat 𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ♪ˎˊ˗
“ᴡʜᴇɴ ɪ ɢᴇᴛ ᴡʜᴇʀᴇ ɪ’ᴍ ɢᴏɪɴɢ” x ʙʀᴀᴅ ᴘᴀɪsʟᴇʏ ꜰᴛ. ᴅᴏʟʟʏ ᴘᴀʀᴛᴏɴ
0:11 ─♥─────────── 4:07
This story follows two kids who grow up in the same trailer park, clinging to each other through the kind of childhood no one should ever have to survive. As the years pass, their lifelong friendship slowly transforms into first love while they both dream of making it to “the other side” of the lives they’ve always known.
I am genuinely not okay after this book.
I don’t even know how to explain the kind of heartbreak this story made me feel because it wasn’t just sad… it was devastating. 😭 I cried for these kids. I spent so many chapters watching them carry pain that no child should ever have to carry. Every little victory felt precious because it came after so much hurt 🥺
Brant and Callie completely owned my heart. Watching their relationship grow from two eight yr olds finding comfort in one another into something deeper over the years was beautiful in the most painfully slow way possible. The slow burn was EVERYTHING. The yearning. The tension. The tiny moments that somehow meant more than grand declarations. They became each other’s safe place long before they became anything else, and I don’t think I’ll ever recover from that. 😭
Callie’s story regarding her dad was incredibly difficult to read, but Brant’s own loneliness and neglect broke me just as much. Neither of them had the childhood they deserved, so they quietly became the home neither one had. Even when the world around them was full of chaos, they kept choosing each other over and over again.
One small thing that caught me off guard at first was Callie continuing to refer to her father as “Daddy.” Initially it felt jarring, but the deeper I got into the story, the more it made heartbreaking sense. She was still seeing him through the lens of a child who had been conditioned to depend on him, regardless of what he put her through. That choice ended up feeling painfully authentic rather than out of place 🥲
The timeline jumps confused me a little in the beginning, but once I realized the pattern, it became really easy to follow. Honestly i had no idea just how invested I was going to become. I knew this was a duet, but absolutely NOTHING prepared me for that ending. I need book two immediately because that cliffhanger left me emotionally unwell.
The symbolism with the doves is smthing i loved. Doves don’t fly through grief alone—they move together, side by side—and that’s exactly who Brant and Callie were for each other. Every time one of them started falling apart, the other was there to help carry the weight. They weren’t each other’s escape from the darkness… they were the reason surviving it felt possible🥺🫶🏼
This book is about surviving the side of life that hurts. Holding onto someone while you’re waiting and hoping you’ll eventually make it to the other side. It’s messy, it’s raw, it’s relentlessly heartbreaking, but somehow it’s also filled with this quiet, unwavering hope that refuses to let go.
I need book 2 ASAP
favorite quotes ↓
“His presence is like a quilt over my heart. Warming the parts that are vacant and cold.”
“Instead of shying away from my scars, he begs me to show them to him. He’s the remedy to my broken heart. The glue sealing the cracks of every severed piece. My hero.”
“I realize that our losses could never add up to the sum of our love. Many people are served unconditional love, but we built it. Our love doesn’t know boundaries. It only knows how to accept each other. In all of our forms.”
“Love never withers when it’s true. When it’s true love, it transcends distance. Physical space doesn’t determine the way love makes us feel, or the way it shapes us.”
“I don’t ever want you to forget me, Callie. And even though we’re excited to see the other side, and we’re eager for a fresh start, don’t ever forget how we got there. Always remember us. This side.”
things to know about the book ↓
🕊️ childhood best friends
🕊️ first love
🕊️ protective MMC
🕊️ childhood trauma
🕊️ bittersweet romance
🕊️ “us against the world”
🕊️ so much angst 😭
🕊️ strong friendship
🕊️ slowburn
🕊️ dual timeline
🕊️ dual POV
swearing: yes
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
→ chapters: 7, 11, 18, 20, 23, 25
Thank you Luna Literary, Love Notes PR, publisher & author for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
→ Just a quick content note for readers: If you’re considering picking this one up, please read the trigger warnings first. This book contains extremely heavy topics that are depicted on page, and it absolutely has the potential to be deeply triggering.
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
─────────
・❥・⁀➷ 🌻 🕊️ 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
july 10th- this blurb has me by the throat ngl
July 13, 2026
#Review: *This Side* - Drea Scott - ARC [18+]
4.6/5✨
3/5🌶️
They were meant to find each other, to become that one person on who they could always rely on. Callie Rae and Brant have met in the trailer park where they were living and it was an instant connection, despite their young age. A beautiful friendship blossomed between them, which transformed into so much more over the years. It was hard for both of them to live in broken families, but Callie Rae especially had a hard time living under the same roof with her abusive father.
Brant was the one who always wanted to protect her, but could he stand up against a much stronger man than him, such as Callie Rae's father? Could they fight for the beautiful love that flourished into their hearts?
Ahhh, this story was simply heartbreaking and yet so, so beautiful!🥺 Callie Rae and Brant have been through sooo many painful moments over time that have definitely brought them even closer to each other, both fighting really hard to overcome their current state. I felt so emotional to see how protective Brant was and how strong his bound with Callie Rae was. I was captivated by their story, being so curious to find out how their connection evolved over the years and to see if their strong determination helped them change their destinies. It broke my heart to see everything Callie Rae had to endure, having such a tough time around her father, leaving her with so many invisible scars, which were yet so painful. This story has covered this friendship over time, often having forays into the present, something which made me gather so many questions because of their current situation and not knowing exactly what happened there which lead to that outcome.
I can tell you that I'm now super invested into this story, wanting soooo bad to see how things had evolved between Callie Rae and Brant and how will they find their way to that happy ending they've always dreamed about.
Thank you so, so much Luna Literary and Drea for accepting me for this e-ARC. I loved it!💗
✨Tropes
▫️Childhood Friends To Lovers
▫️First/Young Love
▫️Soulmates
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Traumatic Upbringings
▫️Boy Obsessed
▫️Protective MMC
▫️Angsty Romance
4.6/5✨
3/5🌶️
They were meant to find each other, to become that one person on who they could always rely on. Callie Rae and Brant have met in the trailer park where they were living and it was an instant connection, despite their young age. A beautiful friendship blossomed between them, which transformed into so much more over the years. It was hard for both of them to live in broken families, but Callie Rae especially had a hard time living under the same roof with her abusive father.
Brant was the one who always wanted to protect her, but could he stand up against a much stronger man than him, such as Callie Rae's father? Could they fight for the beautiful love that flourished into their hearts?
Ahhh, this story was simply heartbreaking and yet so, so beautiful!🥺 Callie Rae and Brant have been through sooo many painful moments over time that have definitely brought them even closer to each other, both fighting really hard to overcome their current state. I felt so emotional to see how protective Brant was and how strong his bound with Callie Rae was. I was captivated by their story, being so curious to find out how their connection evolved over the years and to see if their strong determination helped them change their destinies. It broke my heart to see everything Callie Rae had to endure, having such a tough time around her father, leaving her with so many invisible scars, which were yet so painful. This story has covered this friendship over time, often having forays into the present, something which made me gather so many questions because of their current situation and not knowing exactly what happened there which lead to that outcome.
I can tell you that I'm now super invested into this story, wanting soooo bad to see how things had evolved between Callie Rae and Brant and how will they find their way to that happy ending they've always dreamed about.
Thank you so, so much Luna Literary and Drea for accepting me for this e-ARC. I loved it!💗
✨Tropes
▫️Childhood Friends To Lovers
▫️First/Young Love
▫️Soulmates
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Traumatic Upbringings
▫️Boy Obsessed
▫️Protective MMC
▫️Angsty Romance
July 16, 2026
4.5🌟, 2🌶️
Some stories don’t break your heart all at once. They slowly settled into it, and that’s exactly what Brant and Callie Rae did.
Watching them grow from two children searching for comfort into the one constant in each other’s lives felt incredibly special. Their slow burn was patient, tender, and built on years of unwavering trust, which made every small moment between them mean so much more.
What I loved most was how this story found hope in places that felt impossibly dark. Both Brant and Callie Rae carry heavy burdens, yet their bond never stopped being a source of strength for the other. The dove symbolism added such a beautiful layer to their journey, and once I settled into the dual timeline, I couldn’t wait to piece together everything that had brought them to the present.
I reached the final pages completely attached to these two, and that cliffhanger left me wanting the next book immediately. This is a deeply emotional coming of age romance about love, resilience, and finding the one person who makes surviving feel a little easier. My heart isn’t quite ready to let Brant and Callie Rae go.
I loved every painful, hopeful moment of this journey.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Drea Scott and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
Some stories don’t break your heart all at once. They slowly settled into it, and that’s exactly what Brant and Callie Rae did.
Watching them grow from two children searching for comfort into the one constant in each other’s lives felt incredibly special. Their slow burn was patient, tender, and built on years of unwavering trust, which made every small moment between them mean so much more.
What I loved most was how this story found hope in places that felt impossibly dark. Both Brant and Callie Rae carry heavy burdens, yet their bond never stopped being a source of strength for the other. The dove symbolism added such a beautiful layer to their journey, and once I settled into the dual timeline, I couldn’t wait to piece together everything that had brought them to the present.
I reached the final pages completely attached to these two, and that cliffhanger left me wanting the next book immediately. This is a deeply emotional coming of age romance about love, resilience, and finding the one person who makes surviving feel a little easier. My heart isn’t quite ready to let Brant and Callie Rae go.
I loved every painful, hopeful moment of this journey.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Drea Scott and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
July 30, 2026
Thank you, Drea, for the opportunity to read this ARC. 🧡
I want to start by saying that I genuinely enjoyed the story and the overall plot. These characters go through so much, and their journey is one that will definitely tug at your heartstrings.
Unfortunately, the spice just wasn’t for me. I’ve found myself becoming a lot pickier with that aspect of books lately. I tried to set it aside because of the characters ages, but it ended up feeling a little too cringey for my personal taste.
I really wanted to love this one because I absolutely love Drea Scotts books in the past. But not every book is going to be the right fit for every reader, and that’s okay.
While this one was ultimately a maybe for me, I can see it being a yes for many other readers. If the spice doesn’t bother you, I think you’ll still appreciate the emotional story and everything these characters endure.
Sadly, I won’t be continuing the duet, but I’m still grateful for the chance to read and review it. ❤️
I want to start by saying that I genuinely enjoyed the story and the overall plot. These characters go through so much, and their journey is one that will definitely tug at your heartstrings.
Unfortunately, the spice just wasn’t for me. I’ve found myself becoming a lot pickier with that aspect of books lately. I tried to set it aside because of the characters ages, but it ended up feeling a little too cringey for my personal taste.
I really wanted to love this one because I absolutely love Drea Scotts books in the past. But not every book is going to be the right fit for every reader, and that’s okay.
While this one was ultimately a maybe for me, I can see it being a yes for many other readers. If the spice doesn’t bother you, I think you’ll still appreciate the emotional story and everything these characters endure.
Sadly, I won’t be continuing the duet, but I’m still grateful for the chance to read and review it. ❤️
July 14, 2026
Thank you to Drea and LovenotesPR for the ARC.
The tropes for this book caught my attention straight away, and I knew I had to apply for an ARC. This story was beautiful, emotional, and completely heartbreaking at times.
The book follows Brant and Callie from the age of 8. They meet in a trailer park, become best friends, and we get to watch them grow up together, slowly fall in love, and eventually leave for college. I loved getting to see every stage of their lives. Their friendship was so special, and you could really feel how much they meant to each other. It made their love story even more emotional.
Both Brant and Callie have been through so much. Callie has an abusive father, and I honestly hated him every time he appeared. He made me so angry. She also lost her mother, who never really gave her the love she deserved. Brant’s life wasn’t easy either. His father was never around, and his mum struggled with alcohol. Watching them grow up while carrying so much pain was heartbreaking, but it also made me want to keep reading because I just wanted them to find happiness.
The writing was really good and easy to read. The author did a great job showing their emotions and making every stage of their lives feel important. I loved watching their friendship grow into something more, and I found myself getting more attached to them with every chapter.
And then… that ending. I genuinely was not ready for the cliffhanger. Now I need book two because I have so many questions and I need to know what happens next.
Overall, this was a beautiful and emotional story about friendship, first love, growing up, and finding the one person who always feels like home. I really enjoyed it, and I can’t wait to continue Brant and Callie’s journey.
Tropes:
• Childhood friends to lovers
• Traumatic upbringings
• Soulmates
• Neighbours in a trailer park
• Slow burn
• First love / young love
The tropes for this book caught my attention straight away, and I knew I had to apply for an ARC. This story was beautiful, emotional, and completely heartbreaking at times.
The book follows Brant and Callie from the age of 8. They meet in a trailer park, become best friends, and we get to watch them grow up together, slowly fall in love, and eventually leave for college. I loved getting to see every stage of their lives. Their friendship was so special, and you could really feel how much they meant to each other. It made their love story even more emotional.
Both Brant and Callie have been through so much. Callie has an abusive father, and I honestly hated him every time he appeared. He made me so angry. She also lost her mother, who never really gave her the love she deserved. Brant’s life wasn’t easy either. His father was never around, and his mum struggled with alcohol. Watching them grow up while carrying so much pain was heartbreaking, but it also made me want to keep reading because I just wanted them to find happiness.
The writing was really good and easy to read. The author did a great job showing their emotions and making every stage of their lives feel important. I loved watching their friendship grow into something more, and I found myself getting more attached to them with every chapter.
And then… that ending. I genuinely was not ready for the cliffhanger. Now I need book two because I have so many questions and I need to know what happens next.
Overall, this was a beautiful and emotional story about friendship, first love, growing up, and finding the one person who always feels like home. I really enjoyed it, and I can’t wait to continue Brant and Callie’s journey.
Tropes:
• Childhood friends to lovers
• Traumatic upbringings
• Soulmates
• Neighbours in a trailer park
• Slow burn
• First love / young love
July 8, 2026
4.25✨
This is a book about young love, first love, and finding yourself. This beautiful story follows Brant and Callie Rae, they met in a trailer park when they were 8 years old and became best friends. We follow them all throughout their childhood and watch them fall in love. All up until they both go off to college.
This book reminds me of what it was in like to fall in love at a young age and being able to look back at it now and remember everything in a new light.
While this is marketed as a second chance romance, the Duology itself is second chance. The second book in set in their adult life, while Callie Rae is still waiting for Brant to come find her like he promised.
I know this book is set in the South, so that’s why the dialogue is set the way it is, but I really didn’t enjoy the southern slang, or them referring to their deadbeat parents as Momma and Daddy. Other than that, I really enjoyed this book and the beauty it brings to first/young love 💕
This is a book about young love, first love, and finding yourself. This beautiful story follows Brant and Callie Rae, they met in a trailer park when they were 8 years old and became best friends. We follow them all throughout their childhood and watch them fall in love. All up until they both go off to college.
This book reminds me of what it was in like to fall in love at a young age and being able to look back at it now and remember everything in a new light.
While this is marketed as a second chance romance, the Duology itself is second chance. The second book in set in their adult life, while Callie Rae is still waiting for Brant to come find her like he promised.
I know this book is set in the South, so that’s why the dialogue is set the way it is, but I really didn’t enjoy the southern slang, or them referring to their deadbeat parents as Momma and Daddy. Other than that, I really enjoyed this book and the beauty it brings to first/young love 💕
July 10, 2026
4.5 stars 🌟
I’m still processing what I just read, but I’m devastated. My little ones deserve much more than they got :(.
I knew that when I read this I was going to have a cliffhanger at the end, but I didn’t have in mind that I was going to leave me looking forward to the next book NOW, I need it now. Brant and Callie, I love you very much; they are two characters who definitely stole my heart and have my affection.
*Half spoiler*
I didn’t expect that ending, I’m happy but at the same time sad, I didn’t want them to spend so long without seeing each other. I want to read the reunion now and although it will hurt to read them and see how they face those feelings, it will be worth it.
I’m still processing what I just read, but I’m devastated. My little ones deserve much more than they got :(.
I knew that when I read this I was going to have a cliffhanger at the end, but I didn’t have in mind that I was going to leave me looking forward to the next book NOW, I need it now. Brant and Callie, I love you very much; they are two characters who definitely stole my heart and have my affection.
*Half spoiler*
I didn’t expect that ending, I’m happy but at the same time sad, I didn’t want them to spend so long without seeing each other. I want to read the reunion now and although it will hurt to read them and see how they face those feelings, it will be worth it.
July 5, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and Drea Scott for this ARC! All opinions are my own.
What a devastating, traumatic yet heartfelt read 🥺 It lifted the curtain to really show the invisible scars as well as the literal ones caused by an abusive drunk father.
The friendship and connection between Brant and Callie is so beautiful. Sometimes we really just need one person to see us, help us, and it can make all the difference.
Callie is a force to be reckoned with, and it’s sweet how Brant grounds her. Meanwhile, Callie inspires him. They’re both strong on their own, but even stronger together.
I’m really rooting for them and can’t wait to see where their lives take them in book 2!
What a devastating, traumatic yet heartfelt read 🥺 It lifted the curtain to really show the invisible scars as well as the literal ones caused by an abusive drunk father.
The friendship and connection between Brant and Callie is so beautiful. Sometimes we really just need one person to see us, help us, and it can make all the difference.
Callie is a force to be reckoned with, and it’s sweet how Brant grounds her. Meanwhile, Callie inspires him. They’re both strong on their own, but even stronger together.
I’m really rooting for them and can’t wait to see where their lives take them in book 2!
July 16, 2026
📖 This Side | Drea Scott
📚 Wings of Two Duet #1
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
I don't typically reach for a lot of contemporary romance, but Drea is one of those authors who always pulls me in, and the first book in this duet was no exception.
I finished this in under 24 hours, even with Fourth of July celebrations in full swing. I'm not kidding when I say I was standing in line at a food truck with my eyes glued to my phone because I had to know what happened next.
The dual timeline was executed so well. The flash-forward chapters gave just enough information to keep me completely invested while staying vague enough that I was desperate to figure out what caused Callie Rae and Brant to drift apart.
This is absolutely one of those books that leaves you counting down the days until the sequel. Thankfully, Drea is an absolute sweetheart, so we don't have to wait long. The Other Side releases next month!
Thank you to Drea and Luna for the opportunity to read this early, and an extra thank you to Drea for putting up with me blowing up your DMs while I processed everything.
Bookstagram Edit
🆃🆁🅾🅿🅴🆂
🧡 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🕊️ First/Young Love
🧡 Traumatic Upbringings
🕊️ Soulmates
🧡 Neighbors in a trailer park
🕊️ Virgin MMC x Virgin FMC
🧡 Boy Obsessed & Protective AF
🕊️ Dual POV
🧡 Slow Burn (until they are 18)
🕊️ YA/NA Romance
🧡 Ends on a Cliffhanger
⤷ The Other Side (Book #2) releases 8.13
📚 Wings of Two Duet #1
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
I don't typically reach for a lot of contemporary romance, but Drea is one of those authors who always pulls me in, and the first book in this duet was no exception.
I finished this in under 24 hours, even with Fourth of July celebrations in full swing. I'm not kidding when I say I was standing in line at a food truck with my eyes glued to my phone because I had to know what happened next.
The dual timeline was executed so well. The flash-forward chapters gave just enough information to keep me completely invested while staying vague enough that I was desperate to figure out what caused Callie Rae and Brant to drift apart.
This is absolutely one of those books that leaves you counting down the days until the sequel. Thankfully, Drea is an absolute sweetheart, so we don't have to wait long. The Other Side releases next month!
Thank you to Drea and Luna for the opportunity to read this early, and an extra thank you to Drea for putting up with me blowing up your DMs while I processed everything.
Bookstagram Edit
🆃🆁🅾🅿🅴🆂
🧡 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🕊️ First/Young Love
🧡 Traumatic Upbringings
🕊️ Soulmates
🧡 Neighbors in a trailer park
🕊️ Virgin MMC x Virgin FMC
🧡 Boy Obsessed & Protective AF
🕊️ Dual POV
🧡 Slow Burn (until they are 18)
🕊️ YA/NA Romance
🧡 Ends on a Cliffhanger
⤷ The Other Side (Book #2) releases 8.13
July 10, 2026
I received this ARC for an exchange for my honest review. Overall, I wasn’t super impressed with this book. The story flowed well, telling the story of the main characters life while growing up. I couldn’t stand how the characters called each other Dove. However, I did love the protectiveness of the MMC towards the FMC. I felt heartbreak for the ending towards the main characters.
July 18, 2026
✨ Book Review ✨
📖 This Side by Drea Scott
Book 1 of a duet.
I don’t even know where to start with this one. This book was pulling on my heartstrings!
Definitely check your trigger warnings.
🌻 This story follows Callie and Brandt’s friendship grow throughout their teenage years with flashes of when they are adults. It showcases “this side” they are currently on. How they both had no choice with the kind of life they were born into, both at the hands of alcoholic parents. This side, where they both experienced different types of abuse but hell all the same. This side, where they are discovering young love. This side, where they dream of one day making it on the other side (name of book 2!).
Even though they were dealt the short end of the stick and not given the unconditional love you would expect to receive from the person that brought you into the world, they choose to pour love into each other when no one else would and encouraged each other to do better so they could create the future they want. The bond they shared was bittersweet in the sense that it grew in strength with every hardship they endured. They were the light in each other’s lives during their darkest times. 🌻
🌲 Brandt was such a distinguished young man. The way he was always there for Callie, we want a Brandt in our corner and need more Brandts in the world. What they had to go through was heartbreaking but seeing their friendship turn into young love was sweet.
I was bawling by the end of it! 😭
Drea had a way of painting a picture of what their lives were like as a teenager but the flashes of when they’re adults had me trying to figure out what exactly happened after the end of book 1!
Excited to read book 2 when they’re on “The Other Side”
📖 This Side by Drea Scott
Book 1 of a duet.
I don’t even know where to start with this one. This book was pulling on my heartstrings!
Definitely check your trigger warnings.
🌻 This story follows Callie and Brandt’s friendship grow throughout their teenage years with flashes of when they are adults. It showcases “this side” they are currently on. How they both had no choice with the kind of life they were born into, both at the hands of alcoholic parents. This side, where they both experienced different types of abuse but hell all the same. This side, where they are discovering young love. This side, where they dream of one day making it on the other side (name of book 2!).
Even though they were dealt the short end of the stick and not given the unconditional love you would expect to receive from the person that brought you into the world, they choose to pour love into each other when no one else would and encouraged each other to do better so they could create the future they want. The bond they shared was bittersweet in the sense that it grew in strength with every hardship they endured. They were the light in each other’s lives during their darkest times. 🌻
🌲 Brandt was such a distinguished young man. The way he was always there for Callie, we want a Brandt in our corner and need more Brandts in the world. What they had to go through was heartbreaking but seeing their friendship turn into young love was sweet.
I was bawling by the end of it! 😭
Drea had a way of painting a picture of what their lives were like as a teenager but the flashes of when they’re adults had me trying to figure out what exactly happened after the end of book 1!
Excited to read book 2 when they’re on “The Other Side”
July 28, 2026
If Drea Scott Writes I am gonna read it !!
This book takes us through the life of Brant and Callie Rae.
They meet as children and are neighbors. Both do not live an easy life either neglecting, addict parents.
They lean on each other as a support person and in the end they relate they are soulmates.
Did it end they way i expected it to…. Nope ! Now I am so ready for book two!!
This book takes us through the life of Brant and Callie Rae.
They meet as children and are neighbors. Both do not live an easy life either neglecting, addict parents.
They lean on each other as a support person and in the end they relate they are soulmates.
Did it end they way i expected it to…. Nope ! Now I am so ready for book two!!
Review of advance copy
We bring each other peace in our world of mayhem, just like the white bird that flies gracefully in the sky.
The only world they know is the one in the trailer park of Willowhart, West Virginia. Days are spent under those loblolly pine trees and dreaming about a brighter future. Nights are spent mending each other’s broken hearts, and sometimes, even the physical wounds have to be tended to.
But where they lost in wealth and a decent home, they won in companionship. Despite the odds, Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett have one person beside them who promises a different life beyond the hills.
At night, Brant listens outside the window of Callie’s trailer, waiting for the inevitable shouts and hollers. He may be younger and weaker than the man he’s up against, but Brant’s heart is twice as strong. It beats for two.
That’s the thing about a pair of doves—they never let the other fly alone.
But even some of the darkest places have pockets of light. As much heartache Callie Rae and Brant are forced to endure, they’re granted moments filled with smiles, laughter, and eventually raging teenage hormones.
Emotions begin to spiral. Typical banter grows heated. And before Callie and Brant know it, their lifelong friendship blossoms into something neither of them is prepared for.
That’s the thing about young love—it’s innocent and intense. Unraveling at lightning speed until it’s too much to bundle up and take with you.
Because sometimes, the side you’re on might just be too painful to keep.
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first.
Reader discretion is advised.
Tropes: Childhood Friends-to-Lovers, Best Friends-to-Lovers, Slow-Burn, Coming-of-Age Romance, First Love, Small-Town Romance, Trailer Park x Blue-Collar Setting, Childhood Trauma, Domestic Abuse, Protective MMC, Found Family, Emotional Healing, Mutual Pining, Angst, High Emotional Stakes, Bittersweet Romance, “Us Against the World”, Protective Friendship, YA/New Adult, Dual Growth Arc, Emotional/Character-Driven Romance, Heavy Angst, Healing Through Love, Small-Town Southern/Appalachian Setting, Trauma & Resilience, Childhood Friends Becoming First Loves.
This Side is the 1st book in Drea Scott’s Wings of Two Duet.
Drea Scott’s This Side, the first book of the Wings of Two Duet, delivers a tender, gritty dive into high school lives with Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett, two teens who are drowning under the pressures of a West Virginia trailer park.
Drea’s This Side has earned a place in the contemporary young adult/new adult romance genre, and yet at the same time Drea has managed to rise above the typical YA/New Adult formula in her exploration of friendship, resilience, and your high school first love when you find it's suddenly awakened, even amid all the hardship of life. Drea perfectly blends her stark honesty with glimpses of hope, creating a story that is not only devastating but also encouraging.
What I found so remarkable about this book was its honest depiction of life in an impoverished, rural corner of America. There is no sugarcoating; it is colorful yet grim, centered on the small possibilities that exist and the unflattering instinct for survival that drives our choices and dreams.
Transcending the opposition between star-crossed teens, Callie and Brant are kindred spirits bound to a land of pines and nebulous futures, gaining strength and solace from one another. It is this duality of pain and solidarity that Drea so deftly captures.
One of Drea’s strengths in writing this story is her character development. Callie and Brant are fully developed characters; they are not cartoonish representations of impoverished youth. There are moments when Brant goes up against greater foes while still standing stoic, vulnerable, yet defiant, all qualities I currently find most relatable. At the same time, Callie’s path is both sensitive and unrelenting; Drea navigates the emotional battleground of burgeoning teenage love while their upbringing brings trauma. The evolution of their friendship into something more is beautifully written, unfolding in slow, natural motions that preserve the innocence and urgency of youthful romance without plunging into melodrama.
This theme dominates the book in varying ways, and Drea's imagery, with the recurring thread of doves flying together, conveys commitment and mutual support. The laughter and tender teenage hormones breaking through the gloom are handled lightly, so the story never becomes oppressive. Yet that tension never really goes away, reminding readers that love in such a fraught environment is uncertain and often tenuous.
On the other hand, readers looking for a tense pace may find the story's rhythm uneven, as passages drag on with atmospheric detail while others move quickly through significant emotional beats. Still, it fits the bill, though be aware that its dark intensity and extreme depiction of toil may not make it an easy read for everyone. That said, this is also what lends the book its immersive quality and emotional impact.
This Side, book 1 of the Wings of Two Duet, is a bittersweet and brutally authentic exploration of heartache, endurance, and the ceaseless bond that young love can create when life gets messy.
This novel will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories set in realistic settings that do not shy away from tender moments alongside ugly truths. If you like coming-of-age stories that don't shy away from life's hard truths, you'll get a little heartbreak with your hope in Drea Scott's stunning 1st half of this duet.
When you finish this first half of the Wings of Two Duet, you'll find Drea leaving you with a haunting question: When life around you is an unending tempest, will taking wing with another be enough to keep you in the sky?
The only world they know is the one in the trailer park of Willowhart, West Virginia. Days are spent under those loblolly pine trees and dreaming about a brighter future. Nights are spent mending each other’s broken hearts, and sometimes, even the physical wounds have to be tended to.
But where they lost in wealth and a decent home, they won in companionship. Despite the odds, Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett have one person beside them who promises a different life beyond the hills.
At night, Brant listens outside the window of Callie’s trailer, waiting for the inevitable shouts and hollers. He may be younger and weaker than the man he’s up against, but Brant’s heart is twice as strong. It beats for two.
That’s the thing about a pair of doves—they never let the other fly alone.
But even some of the darkest places have pockets of light. As much heartache Callie Rae and Brant are forced to endure, they’re granted moments filled with smiles, laughter, and eventually raging teenage hormones.
Emotions begin to spiral. Typical banter grows heated. And before Callie and Brant know it, their lifelong friendship blossoms into something neither of them is prepared for.
That’s the thing about young love—it’s innocent and intense. Unraveling at lightning speed until it’s too much to bundle up and take with you.
Because sometimes, the side you’re on might just be too painful to keep.
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first.
Reader discretion is advised.
Tropes: Childhood Friends-to-Lovers, Best Friends-to-Lovers, Slow-Burn, Coming-of-Age Romance, First Love, Small-Town Romance, Trailer Park x Blue-Collar Setting, Childhood Trauma, Domestic Abuse, Protective MMC, Found Family, Emotional Healing, Mutual Pining, Angst, High Emotional Stakes, Bittersweet Romance, “Us Against the World”, Protective Friendship, YA/New Adult, Dual Growth Arc, Emotional/Character-Driven Romance, Heavy Angst, Healing Through Love, Small-Town Southern/Appalachian Setting, Trauma & Resilience, Childhood Friends Becoming First Loves.
This Side is the 1st book in Drea Scott’s Wings of Two Duet.
Drea Scott’s This Side, the first book of the Wings of Two Duet, delivers a tender, gritty dive into high school lives with Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett, two teens who are drowning under the pressures of a West Virginia trailer park.
Drea’s This Side has earned a place in the contemporary young adult/new adult romance genre, and yet at the same time Drea has managed to rise above the typical YA/New Adult formula in her exploration of friendship, resilience, and your high school first love when you find it's suddenly awakened, even amid all the hardship of life. Drea perfectly blends her stark honesty with glimpses of hope, creating a story that is not only devastating but also encouraging.
What I found so remarkable about this book was its honest depiction of life in an impoverished, rural corner of America. There is no sugarcoating; it is colorful yet grim, centered on the small possibilities that exist and the unflattering instinct for survival that drives our choices and dreams.
Transcending the opposition between star-crossed teens, Callie and Brant are kindred spirits bound to a land of pines and nebulous futures, gaining strength and solace from one another. It is this duality of pain and solidarity that Drea so deftly captures.
One of Drea’s strengths in writing this story is her character development. Callie and Brant are fully developed characters; they are not cartoonish representations of impoverished youth. There are moments when Brant goes up against greater foes while still standing stoic, vulnerable, yet defiant, all qualities I currently find most relatable. At the same time, Callie’s path is both sensitive and unrelenting; Drea navigates the emotional battleground of burgeoning teenage love while their upbringing brings trauma. The evolution of their friendship into something more is beautifully written, unfolding in slow, natural motions that preserve the innocence and urgency of youthful romance without plunging into melodrama.
This theme dominates the book in varying ways, and Drea's imagery, with the recurring thread of doves flying together, conveys commitment and mutual support. The laughter and tender teenage hormones breaking through the gloom are handled lightly, so the story never becomes oppressive. Yet that tension never really goes away, reminding readers that love in such a fraught environment is uncertain and often tenuous.
On the other hand, readers looking for a tense pace may find the story's rhythm uneven, as passages drag on with atmospheric detail while others move quickly through significant emotional beats. Still, it fits the bill, though be aware that its dark intensity and extreme depiction of toil may not make it an easy read for everyone. That said, this is also what lends the book its immersive quality and emotional impact.
This Side, book 1 of the Wings of Two Duet, is a bittersweet and brutally authentic exploration of heartache, endurance, and the ceaseless bond that young love can create when life gets messy.
This novel will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories set in realistic settings that do not shy away from tender moments alongside ugly truths. If you like coming-of-age stories that don't shy away from life's hard truths, you'll get a little heartbreak with your hope in Drea Scott's stunning 1st half of this duet.
When you finish this first half of the Wings of Two Duet, you'll find Drea leaving you with a haunting question: When life around you is an unending tempest, will taking wing with another be enough to keep you in the sky?
August 29, 2026
“It’s a pity we won’t get infinite lifetimes together. But Okay.
Childhood friends to lovers.
Hear me out before everyone comes for me.
😂
It’s not that I DISLIKE this trope.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with it.
It’s just one of those tropes where sometimes my brain goes:
Okay…I know where we’re going.
They grow up together.
They’re best friends.
Feelings happen.
I’m
Someone realizes they’ve been in love forever.
Boom.
Romance.
Meanwhile my dark-romance-rotted brain is sitting there waiting for somebody to commit a felony.
😭
I NEED VARIABLES.
But apparently Drea Scott knew exactly how to shut me up.
Because This Side said:
Fine.
You think childhood friends to lovers is predictable?
Let’s emotionally destroy you instead.
😐
Well played.
Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett grow up together in a trailer park in Willowhart, West Virginia.
They don’t have money.
They don’t have easy childhoods.
They don’t have adults consistently giving them the safety and stability they deserve.
But they have each other.
And THAT is what made this version of childhood friends to lovers hit differently for me.
Because Callie and Brant aren’t simply:
We’ve been friends since we were little.
They’re:
You were my safe place when nothing else was safe.
😭
HELLO?!
That changes things.
Their entire relationship is built around surviving childhood side by side.
Brant listens outside Callie’s trailer window because he knows the yelling is coming.
He knows what happens inside that home.
He’s younger.
He’s smaller.
He can’t magically fix her life.
But this boy is still prepared to protect her with everything he has.
🥺
His heart beats for two.
EXCUSE ME.
I came here skeptical about childhood friends to lovers and now I’m staring into the middle distance.
This hospital room has seen enough suffering already, Drea.
😂😭
The dove imagery throughout their story was beautiful too.
A pair of doves never lets the other fly alone.
And that’s Callie and Brant.
When the rest of their world feels chaotic, painful and uncertain, they find peace in each other.
They’re each other’s constant.
Their little pocket of light.
Their:
It’s us against the world.
And I am an absolute SUCKER for that dynamic when it’s done well.
Because their relationship doesn’t begin with romantic love.
It begins with survival.
Comfort.
Friendship.
Protection.
Two kids sitting beneath those West Virginia trees dreaming about getting out someday.
Together.
🥹
And then…
Teenage hormones enter the chat.
😂
Because eventually that childhood friendship starts shifting.
The banter changes.
Touches mean something different.
Jealousy creeps in.
Feelings get bigger.
And suddenly:
👁️👄👁️
Oh.
We’re not just friends anymore.
And because Drea spends time establishing what they mean to each other BEFORE the romance develops, I actually believed that transition.
That’s what childhood friends to lovers needs for me.
I need to understand why THIS person.
Why has nobody else ever occupied that space?
Why does losing the friendship feel almost more terrifying than never exploring the romance?
Callie and Brant answered those questions.
Because before they ever become romantic partners, they’re already home to each other.
😭
And their young love feels exactly like young love should.
Messy.
Intense.
Innocent.
Overwhelming.
That first experience of loving someone so deeply that you can’t imagine a version of your future where they aren’t standing beside you.
Except these two have already survived so much together that the stakes feel even higher.
They aren’t just risking a friendship.
They’re risking their safe place.
And that’s where the angst comes in.
🫠
SO. MUCH. ANGST.
Apparently my complaint about childhood friends to lovers being predictable was interpreted as:
Please hurt me more.
That is NOT what I said.
But apparently it IS what I enjoy.
😂
Brant especially got me.
Protective MMC?
Obviously.
You know I’m seated.
But there’s something heartbreaking about seeing that instinct develop when he’s still so young.
He can’t protect Callie from everything.
He can’t magically give either of them the lives they deserve.
But he can sit beside her.
Listen.
Show up.
Dream with her.
Remind her she isn’t alone.
Sometimes protection isn’t:
Touch her and die.
Sometimes it’s:
I’ll sit outside your window so you don’t have to be scared alone.
😭
OH FUCK OFF.
Why did that hurt more?!
This book carries a lot of darkness because of what these kids endure, but it isn’t relentlessly bleak.
There ARE pockets of light.
The friendship.
The laughter.
Their banter.
Those little moments where they’re allowed to simply be young and stupid and happy.
And honestly, those moments make the painful ones hit harder.
Because you see exactly what Callie and Brant could be if life would just give them a fucking break.
But life?
Apparently:
No. ❤️
😭
And because this is only book one…
I DON’T TRUST ANYTHING.
The word bittersweet is already making me nervous.
The dove symbolism is making me emotional.
And the entire concept of:
“Sometimes, the side you’re on might just be too painful to keep.”
???
DREA.
WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
Actually don’t tell me.
I DON’T WANT TO KNOW.
Except obviously I’m going to read the next book because apparently emotional self-preservation has never been part of my reading strategy.
😂
WHAT TO EXPECT:
🕊️ Childhood best friends
💕 Friends to lovers
🕊️ First love
🖤 Childhood trauma
💕 Protective MMC
🕊️ Us against the world
💔 Heavy angst
💕 Slow burn
🖤 Difficult home lives
💕 Lifelong friendship
🕊️ Dove symbolism
💕 Emotional intimacy
💔 Bittersweet romance
💕 Small-town / West Virginia setting
🖤 Survival and healing
💕 Young love
FOUR “YOU WERE MY SAFE PLACE BEFORE YOU WERE EVER MY LOVE STORY” STARS.
🕊️😭
So yes.
I will temporarily withdraw my complaint.
Childhood friends to lovers, you got me.
But I maintain that Drea Scott CHEATED.
😂
Because this isn’t simply:
Aw, we grew up together and eventually realized we’re in love.
No.
This is:
We survived together.
We dreamed together.
You were the person beside me when the world wasn’t kind.
And somewhere along the way, you became home.
That’s different.
And considerably more painful.
Which, unfortunately, means it’s much more effective on me.
😂
I wanted variables.
Drea gave me emotional damage.
Apparently that’s the compromise.
Now I have to read book two because I’m emotionally invested in these fictional West Virginia children and their fucking doves.
🕊️
Wonderful.
This seems healthy.
Childhood friends to lovers.
Hear me out before everyone comes for me.
😂
It’s not that I DISLIKE this trope.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with it.
It’s just one of those tropes where sometimes my brain goes:
Okay…I know where we’re going.
They grow up together.
They’re best friends.
Feelings happen.
I’m
Someone realizes they’ve been in love forever.
Boom.
Romance.
Meanwhile my dark-romance-rotted brain is sitting there waiting for somebody to commit a felony.
😭
I NEED VARIABLES.
But apparently Drea Scott knew exactly how to shut me up.
Because This Side said:
Fine.
You think childhood friends to lovers is predictable?
Let’s emotionally destroy you instead.
😐
Well played.
Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett grow up together in a trailer park in Willowhart, West Virginia.
They don’t have money.
They don’t have easy childhoods.
They don’t have adults consistently giving them the safety and stability they deserve.
But they have each other.
And THAT is what made this version of childhood friends to lovers hit differently for me.
Because Callie and Brant aren’t simply:
We’ve been friends since we were little.
They’re:
You were my safe place when nothing else was safe.
😭
HELLO?!
That changes things.
Their entire relationship is built around surviving childhood side by side.
Brant listens outside Callie’s trailer window because he knows the yelling is coming.
He knows what happens inside that home.
He’s younger.
He’s smaller.
He can’t magically fix her life.
But this boy is still prepared to protect her with everything he has.
🥺
His heart beats for two.
EXCUSE ME.
I came here skeptical about childhood friends to lovers and now I’m staring into the middle distance.
This hospital room has seen enough suffering already, Drea.
😂😭
The dove imagery throughout their story was beautiful too.
A pair of doves never lets the other fly alone.
And that’s Callie and Brant.
When the rest of their world feels chaotic, painful and uncertain, they find peace in each other.
They’re each other’s constant.
Their little pocket of light.
Their:
It’s us against the world.
And I am an absolute SUCKER for that dynamic when it’s done well.
Because their relationship doesn’t begin with romantic love.
It begins with survival.
Comfort.
Friendship.
Protection.
Two kids sitting beneath those West Virginia trees dreaming about getting out someday.
Together.
🥹
And then…
Teenage hormones enter the chat.
😂
Because eventually that childhood friendship starts shifting.
The banter changes.
Touches mean something different.
Jealousy creeps in.
Feelings get bigger.
And suddenly:
👁️👄👁️
Oh.
We’re not just friends anymore.
And because Drea spends time establishing what they mean to each other BEFORE the romance develops, I actually believed that transition.
That’s what childhood friends to lovers needs for me.
I need to understand why THIS person.
Why has nobody else ever occupied that space?
Why does losing the friendship feel almost more terrifying than never exploring the romance?
Callie and Brant answered those questions.
Because before they ever become romantic partners, they’re already home to each other.
😭
And their young love feels exactly like young love should.
Messy.
Intense.
Innocent.
Overwhelming.
That first experience of loving someone so deeply that you can’t imagine a version of your future where they aren’t standing beside you.
Except these two have already survived so much together that the stakes feel even higher.
They aren’t just risking a friendship.
They’re risking their safe place.
And that’s where the angst comes in.
🫠
SO. MUCH. ANGST.
Apparently my complaint about childhood friends to lovers being predictable was interpreted as:
Please hurt me more.
That is NOT what I said.
But apparently it IS what I enjoy.
😂
Brant especially got me.
Protective MMC?
Obviously.
You know I’m seated.
But there’s something heartbreaking about seeing that instinct develop when he’s still so young.
He can’t protect Callie from everything.
He can’t magically give either of them the lives they deserve.
But he can sit beside her.
Listen.
Show up.
Dream with her.
Remind her she isn’t alone.
Sometimes protection isn’t:
Touch her and die.
Sometimes it’s:
I’ll sit outside your window so you don’t have to be scared alone.
😭
OH FUCK OFF.
Why did that hurt more?!
This book carries a lot of darkness because of what these kids endure, but it isn’t relentlessly bleak.
There ARE pockets of light.
The friendship.
The laughter.
Their banter.
Those little moments where they’re allowed to simply be young and stupid and happy.
And honestly, those moments make the painful ones hit harder.
Because you see exactly what Callie and Brant could be if life would just give them a fucking break.
But life?
Apparently:
No. ❤️
😭
And because this is only book one…
I DON’T TRUST ANYTHING.
The word bittersweet is already making me nervous.
The dove symbolism is making me emotional.
And the entire concept of:
“Sometimes, the side you’re on might just be too painful to keep.”
???
DREA.
WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
Actually don’t tell me.
I DON’T WANT TO KNOW.
Except obviously I’m going to read the next book because apparently emotional self-preservation has never been part of my reading strategy.
😂
WHAT TO EXPECT:
🕊️ Childhood best friends
💕 Friends to lovers
🕊️ First love
🖤 Childhood trauma
💕 Protective MMC
🕊️ Us against the world
💔 Heavy angst
💕 Slow burn
🖤 Difficult home lives
💕 Lifelong friendship
🕊️ Dove symbolism
💕 Emotional intimacy
💔 Bittersweet romance
💕 Small-town / West Virginia setting
🖤 Survival and healing
💕 Young love
FOUR “YOU WERE MY SAFE PLACE BEFORE YOU WERE EVER MY LOVE STORY” STARS.
🕊️😭
So yes.
I will temporarily withdraw my complaint.
Childhood friends to lovers, you got me.
But I maintain that Drea Scott CHEATED.
😂
Because this isn’t simply:
Aw, we grew up together and eventually realized we’re in love.
No.
This is:
We survived together.
We dreamed together.
You were the person beside me when the world wasn’t kind.
And somewhere along the way, you became home.
That’s different.
And considerably more painful.
Which, unfortunately, means it’s much more effective on me.
😂
I wanted variables.
Drea gave me emotional damage.
Apparently that’s the compromise.
Now I have to read book two because I’m emotionally invested in these fictional West Virginia children and their fucking doves.
🕊️
Wonderful.
This seems healthy.
July 9, 2026
I wasn't prepared for This Side by Drea Scott.
I knew it was going to be emotional, but I had no idea it would hit this hard.
Brent and Callie Ray are just two kids growing up in a trailer park, living next door to each other, trying to survive lives that no child should ever have to endure. They both come from deeply broken homes, but Callie's situation is especially heartbreaking. Her father is manipulative, controlling, and increasingly violent, leaving her trapped in a cycle of fear, guilt, and abuse. Like so many victims, she's been conditioned to believe that maybe she's the problem.
Brent's life isn't much easier. With an alcoholic mother and more responsibilities than any teenager should have, he's simply trying to make it through each day. Yet despite everything stacked against them, they share one dream: to get out. They work hard, help each other, and hold onto the hope that college will be their escape—their chance to finally make it to "the other side."
What I loved most about this book is the relationship between Brent and Callie. Before it's a romance, it's a lifeline. They're each other's safe place, each other's family, each other's home. Their bond feels so raw and genuine because neither of them has ever experienced healthy love or affection. They don't even know how to recognize what they're feeling at first. Watching that friendship slowly evolve into something deeper felt incredibly authentic and emotional.
But what truly broke me was the dual timeline.
In the past, we watch these two kids fighting for a future together. In the present, they're complete strangers who haven't spoken in years. From the very beginning you're left wondering: What happened? How did two people who meant everything to each other end up with nothing?
That question stays with you through every chapter, and it makes every happy moment in the past feel bittersweet because you already know something terrible is waiting for them.
This book is raw, painful, and emotionally exhausting in the best possible way. It doesn't shy away from difficult topics, and it handles trauma, abuse, and survival with a surprising amount of depth.
And yes... this is the first book in a duet.
So if you're thinking about picking it up, be warned: it ends with a brutal cliffhanger. Don't expect closure. Don't expect an easy ending. Just be ready to have your heart ripped out.
I honestly wasn't expecting this story to be this deep or this moving, but it completely exceeded my expectations. I can't wait (and I'm honestly terrified) to see where Brent and Callie's story goes next.
I knew it was going to be emotional, but I had no idea it would hit this hard.
Brent and Callie Ray are just two kids growing up in a trailer park, living next door to each other, trying to survive lives that no child should ever have to endure. They both come from deeply broken homes, but Callie's situation is especially heartbreaking. Her father is manipulative, controlling, and increasingly violent, leaving her trapped in a cycle of fear, guilt, and abuse. Like so many victims, she's been conditioned to believe that maybe she's the problem.
Brent's life isn't much easier. With an alcoholic mother and more responsibilities than any teenager should have, he's simply trying to make it through each day. Yet despite everything stacked against them, they share one dream: to get out. They work hard, help each other, and hold onto the hope that college will be their escape—their chance to finally make it to "the other side."
What I loved most about this book is the relationship between Brent and Callie. Before it's a romance, it's a lifeline. They're each other's safe place, each other's family, each other's home. Their bond feels so raw and genuine because neither of them has ever experienced healthy love or affection. They don't even know how to recognize what they're feeling at first. Watching that friendship slowly evolve into something deeper felt incredibly authentic and emotional.
But what truly broke me was the dual timeline.
In the past, we watch these two kids fighting for a future together. In the present, they're complete strangers who haven't spoken in years. From the very beginning you're left wondering: What happened? How did two people who meant everything to each other end up with nothing?
That question stays with you through every chapter, and it makes every happy moment in the past feel bittersweet because you already know something terrible is waiting for them.
This book is raw, painful, and emotionally exhausting in the best possible way. It doesn't shy away from difficult topics, and it handles trauma, abuse, and survival with a surprising amount of depth.
And yes... this is the first book in a duet.
So if you're thinking about picking it up, be warned: it ends with a brutal cliffhanger. Don't expect closure. Don't expect an easy ending. Just be ready to have your heart ripped out.
I honestly wasn't expecting this story to be this deep or this moving, but it completely exceeded my expectations. I can't wait (and I'm honestly terrified) to see where Brent and Callie's story goes next.
July 16, 2026
Drea Scott wrote the Wings of Two duet. The first book in this pair is This Side. Thank you to Love Notes PR for the opportunity to read this ARC. You must read this before you read the second book, or nothing will make sense. I have read other stories by this author, so I kind of knew what to expect. From the first chapter I knew that I was going to be feeling so many different emotions while reading this story. I could feel the emotions almost immediately. The author does a fantastic job at integrating the past and present storylines together. We were warned, but I really stress over a cliffhanger, I must know what happens next!
This Side instantly gave me a childhood nostalgia feeling. Two eight year old's whose life collided because of fate. I immediately thought of Kevin and Winnie from the show The Wonder Years or Topanga and Cory from Boy Meets World; only in the beauty of childhood innocence. The essence of young love. I am not trying to glorify anything or diminish what Brant and Callie experience growing up. Let me be very clear, these two have been through some trauma and have definitely trauma bonded. Being around each other felt safe when at other times they were vulnerable.
I was not expecting to feel so connected and emotional while reading this book. There were sad and happy tears falling during this coming of age story. It will rip your heart apart in the hopes that the next book will piece it back together. I truly appreciated being able to experience the first chance love while knowing it will fall apart and there will be a second chance coming in the following book. For anyone who loves the second chance love trope this will be for you, if you want to experience the love from the first spark.
Callie and Brant are the definition of when someone feels like home more than a place ever could. They were not dealt the best hand in life, but the one thing that came out of their terrible circumstances was each other. They got through it together. If they did not have one another to lean on, then their life might be completely different. This Side tore at my heartstrings. It is hard to articulate how this book made me feel, but I hope I did it justice. Brant and Callie are the quintessential young love story that we all love to love, even though we know it is going to hurt. It is worth every page turn and tear stained tissue. I know the duet conclusion, The Other Side, is going to open my chest up again and it is going to hurt in the best way possible and I can't wait!
This Side instantly gave me a childhood nostalgia feeling. Two eight year old's whose life collided because of fate. I immediately thought of Kevin and Winnie from the show The Wonder Years or Topanga and Cory from Boy Meets World; only in the beauty of childhood innocence. The essence of young love. I am not trying to glorify anything or diminish what Brant and Callie experience growing up. Let me be very clear, these two have been through some trauma and have definitely trauma bonded. Being around each other felt safe when at other times they were vulnerable.
I was not expecting to feel so connected and emotional while reading this book. There were sad and happy tears falling during this coming of age story. It will rip your heart apart in the hopes that the next book will piece it back together. I truly appreciated being able to experience the first chance love while knowing it will fall apart and there will be a second chance coming in the following book. For anyone who loves the second chance love trope this will be for you, if you want to experience the love from the first spark.
Callie and Brant are the definition of when someone feels like home more than a place ever could. They were not dealt the best hand in life, but the one thing that came out of their terrible circumstances was each other. They got through it together. If they did not have one another to lean on, then their life might be completely different. This Side tore at my heartstrings. It is hard to articulate how this book made me feel, but I hope I did it justice. Brant and Callie are the quintessential young love story that we all love to love, even though we know it is going to hurt. It is worth every page turn and tear stained tissue. I know the duet conclusion, The Other Side, is going to open my chest up again and it is going to hurt in the best way possible and I can't wait!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC Review: This Side: Part One of the Wings Duet by Drea Scott
I knew I would love this book. I love everything Drea Scott has written, but wow… my heart.
This Side: Part One of the Wings Duet completely pulled me in from the very beginning and never once let go. Set in the trailer park of Willowhart, West Virginia, this story follows Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett as they grow up in a world that gives them very little, but demands so much from them anyway. Under the loblolly pines and within the weight of their circumstances, they build something made of survival, quiet hope, and each other.
What hit me the hardest was how much I related to both Callie and Brant because of the way I grew up. There were so many moments where it didn’t feel like I was just reading their story; it felt like I was remembering pieces of my own. That connection made everything land so much deeper.
Callie absolutely broke my heart. The way she carries more than she should have to, and still finds softness, humour, and little moments of light even when everything around her is heavy, really stayed with me. And Brant… he completely wrecked me. His quiet loyalty, the way he shows up without needing to be asked, especially in the worst moments, and that image of him outside her window while everything is falling apart inside- it says everything about him.
Drea Scott has such a beautiful way of writing these characters so deeply that you don’t just read them, you connect with them. You fall in love with them. And then you feel everything with them. Their joy, their confusion, their pain- it all hits you like it’s your own.
What I loved most was Callie and Brant together. I fell in love with them individually, but even more as a pair. Their bond starts as friendship shaped by survival, then slowly shifts into something heavier, more complicated, and so full of unspoken feelings that you can feel it building in every interaction. It’s tender, messy, and completely consuming in the best way.
This book had me crying, laughing, and completely melting into so many moments. One minute I was smiling at their banter, the next I was sitting there trying to hold myself together. The emotional whiplash is real, but it never feels unnecessary; it just feels honest.
The atmosphere of Willowhart adds so much weight to everything. It shapes them, limits them, but also ties them together in a way they can’t escape.
By the end, I was fully attached and not even close to ready for what comes next. I’m already desperate for Part Two because this story has completely taken hold of me.
Drea Scott has this incredible gift for writing in a way that makes you feel everything. You don’t just read her books; you live inside them. You connect with the characters, you fall in love with them, and your heart breaks right along with theirs.
I’m still not okay.
I knew I would love this book. I love everything Drea Scott has written, but wow… my heart.
This Side: Part One of the Wings Duet completely pulled me in from the very beginning and never once let go. Set in the trailer park of Willowhart, West Virginia, this story follows Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett as they grow up in a world that gives them very little, but demands so much from them anyway. Under the loblolly pines and within the weight of their circumstances, they build something made of survival, quiet hope, and each other.
What hit me the hardest was how much I related to both Callie and Brant because of the way I grew up. There were so many moments where it didn’t feel like I was just reading their story; it felt like I was remembering pieces of my own. That connection made everything land so much deeper.
Callie absolutely broke my heart. The way she carries more than she should have to, and still finds softness, humour, and little moments of light even when everything around her is heavy, really stayed with me. And Brant… he completely wrecked me. His quiet loyalty, the way he shows up without needing to be asked, especially in the worst moments, and that image of him outside her window while everything is falling apart inside- it says everything about him.
Drea Scott has such a beautiful way of writing these characters so deeply that you don’t just read them, you connect with them. You fall in love with them. And then you feel everything with them. Their joy, their confusion, their pain- it all hits you like it’s your own.
What I loved most was Callie and Brant together. I fell in love with them individually, but even more as a pair. Their bond starts as friendship shaped by survival, then slowly shifts into something heavier, more complicated, and so full of unspoken feelings that you can feel it building in every interaction. It’s tender, messy, and completely consuming in the best way.
This book had me crying, laughing, and completely melting into so many moments. One minute I was smiling at their banter, the next I was sitting there trying to hold myself together. The emotional whiplash is real, but it never feels unnecessary; it just feels honest.
The atmosphere of Willowhart adds so much weight to everything. It shapes them, limits them, but also ties them together in a way they can’t escape.
By the end, I was fully attached and not even close to ready for what comes next. I’m already desperate for Part Two because this story has completely taken hold of me.
Drea Scott has this incredible gift for writing in a way that makes you feel everything. You don’t just read her books; you live inside them. You connect with the characters, you fall in love with them, and your heart breaks right along with theirs.
I’m still not okay.
July 17, 2026
5⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
This is the second book I've read by Drea Scott, and both have been 5-star reads. I'm officially a fan for life. She has such a beautiful way of writing characters that feel so real you can’t help but to become emotionally invested.
This story follows Brant and Callie Rae, who meet at eight years old while growing up in the same trailer park. Both come from traumatic childhoods, and watching them become each other's safe place before their friendship slowly blossoms into first love was absolutely beautiful. Their bond is so pure, and experiencing all of their firsts together made every moment feel emotional.
Brant and Callie completely stole my heart. Their chemistry, banter, and unwavering loyalty made me fall more in love with them every chapter. This book had me laughing, crying, and feeling everything in between. The spice was so well done and felt real.
And then... that ending. I was not prepared for that cliffhanger. I need book two immediately because I have so many questions.
Overall, this is a beautiful, emotional story about friendship, first love, healing, and finding the one person who is your home.
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Book 1 / Contemporary Romance
➳❥ Childhood Friends to Lovers
➳❥ First Love
➳❥ Each Others Firsts
➳❥ Traumatic Childhoods
➳❥ Protective MMC
➳❥ Slow Burn
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“He has this magic. His presence is like a quilt over my heart. Warming the parts that are vacant and cold.”
“Sometimes, I think about why I was given this life. Why, of all people, I was the one chosen to endure all of this. And every single time I consider the question, there's only one answer that makes absolute sense. Callie Rae.”
“Brant Beckett doesn't just read me like an open book. He damn near annotates me.”
“As ugly as our lives may have been here, there's been constant beauty throughout.”
“God, I'm so lucky. Not only did fall in love once. I fell in love over and over again. In the most hopeless of places.”
“As dark as it is, I see her clear as day. I always have. She always shines so goddamn bright.”
“Always remember us. This side.”
This is the second book I've read by Drea Scott, and both have been 5-star reads. I'm officially a fan for life. She has such a beautiful way of writing characters that feel so real you can’t help but to become emotionally invested.
This story follows Brant and Callie Rae, who meet at eight years old while growing up in the same trailer park. Both come from traumatic childhoods, and watching them become each other's safe place before their friendship slowly blossoms into first love was absolutely beautiful. Their bond is so pure, and experiencing all of their firsts together made every moment feel emotional.
Brant and Callie completely stole my heart. Their chemistry, banter, and unwavering loyalty made me fall more in love with them every chapter. This book had me laughing, crying, and feeling everything in between. The spice was so well done and felt real.
And then... that ending. I was not prepared for that cliffhanger. I need book two immediately because I have so many questions.
Overall, this is a beautiful, emotional story about friendship, first love, healing, and finding the one person who is your home.
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Book 1 / Contemporary Romance
➳❥ Childhood Friends to Lovers
➳❥ First Love
➳❥ Each Others Firsts
➳❥ Traumatic Childhoods
➳❥ Protective MMC
➳❥ Slow Burn
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“He has this magic. His presence is like a quilt over my heart. Warming the parts that are vacant and cold.”
“Sometimes, I think about why I was given this life. Why, of all people, I was the one chosen to endure all of this. And every single time I consider the question, there's only one answer that makes absolute sense. Callie Rae.”
“Brant Beckett doesn't just read me like an open book. He damn near annotates me.”
“As ugly as our lives may have been here, there's been constant beauty throughout.”
“God, I'm so lucky. Not only did fall in love once. I fell in love over and over again. In the most hopeless of places.”
“As dark as it is, I see her clear as day. I always have. She always shines so goddamn bright.”
“Always remember us. This side.”
July 17, 2026
3,5⭐ 2🌶️
Judging from the rest of the reviews, I fear mine will be a little controversial.
The plot of the book in itself, was very interesting, gripping and really kept you emotionally invested in the MCs experiences and growth.
I think it was well written, and the thoughts and emotions of Brant and Callie striked true to what a child/teenager going through their lives and puberty would probably feel like.
Both Brant and Callie had their own share of hardship growing up, both with abusive families in their own way. The trauma they went through shaped them and fused them together, an unbreakable duo sticking together to survive the lives they were burdened with, leaning on each other to get to the other side.
What kept me from rating higher, was 1) the multiple timelines and flashforwards were pretty confusing up until at least the middle of book, and a little bit tiring if I'm honest. I would've preferred to have read some of these moments from their past as actual flashbacks written into the present, kind of like they were reminiscing about these experiences.
2) Callie's character, in comparison to Brants, felt emotionally stunted at 14yo. I understand everyone deals with trauma in their own way, and everyone's brain is affected differently, but Callie ended up just grinding on my nerves with how immature she was throughout the entire book.
While Brant protected, cherished and always looked out for Callie, she acted selfishly most of the time, taking all he had to offer her whilst throwing tantrums for petty things and treating him carelessly whenever she was mad.
I kept thinking that if she had handled him with half the amount of care he did her, half their grief over silly things wouldn't exist and their relationship would have been better.
Till the very end, she took out her anger and fear on him, pushing him away and pulling him back whenever she felt like, which he didn't deserve at all. Her emotions seemed shallow when compared to his.
I mean no offense to the author and anyone who truly loved the book. These are my feelings and opinions, and they are exclusively about the book and characters, not the author.
~Thank you to LoveNotes PR and Ms. Scott for this ARC in exchange for my honest review~
Judging from the rest of the reviews, I fear mine will be a little controversial.
The plot of the book in itself, was very interesting, gripping and really kept you emotionally invested in the MCs experiences and growth.
I think it was well written, and the thoughts and emotions of Brant and Callie striked true to what a child/teenager going through their lives and puberty would probably feel like.
Both Brant and Callie had their own share of hardship growing up, both with abusive families in their own way. The trauma they went through shaped them and fused them together, an unbreakable duo sticking together to survive the lives they were burdened with, leaning on each other to get to the other side.
What kept me from rating higher, was 1) the multiple timelines and flashforwards were pretty confusing up until at least the middle of book, and a little bit tiring if I'm honest. I would've preferred to have read some of these moments from their past as actual flashbacks written into the present, kind of like they were reminiscing about these experiences.
2) Callie's character, in comparison to Brants, felt emotionally stunted at 14yo. I understand everyone deals with trauma in their own way, and everyone's brain is affected differently, but Callie ended up just grinding on my nerves with how immature she was throughout the entire book.
While Brant protected, cherished and always looked out for Callie, she acted selfishly most of the time, taking all he had to offer her whilst throwing tantrums for petty things and treating him carelessly whenever she was mad.
I kept thinking that if she had handled him with half the amount of care he did her, half their grief over silly things wouldn't exist and their relationship would have been better.
Till the very end, she took out her anger and fear on him, pushing him away and pulling him back whenever she felt like, which he didn't deserve at all. Her emotions seemed shallow when compared to his.
I mean no offense to the author and anyone who truly loved the book. These are my feelings and opinions, and they are exclusively about the book and characters, not the author.
~Thank you to LoveNotes PR and Ms. Scott for this ARC in exchange for my honest review~
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2026
Every book an author writes isn't going to be your favorite, and for me, that was the case with This Side, the first book in the Wings of Two duet.
This book follows Brant and Callie Rae from the ages of 8 to 18, telling the story of how their relationship began. Most second-chance romances start after the separation, so I appreciated that the author chose to dedicate an entire book to building their history first. While I enjoyed getting to know these characters and watching their relationship develop, I did feel the story was a bit longer than it needed to be. Some parts moved slowly, making it difficult to stay fully engaged. That said, I understand why the author wanted readers to experience the foundation of their relationship before moving into the second-chance romance.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the unwavering loyalty between Brant and Callie Rae. Brant's habit of knocking twice on Callie Rae's window whenever he heard arguing at her house was such a simple but powerful gesture. He was always there when she needed someone, and those moments made it easy to root for them. Their relationship was the highlight of the story for me, and it was one of the biggest reasons this book earned its rating.
Before adding this book to your TBR, there are two things you should know. First, the story covers some heavy topics, so I highly recommend checking the trigger warnings beforehand. Second, this book does not end with a happily ever after. As the first half of a duet, its purpose is to set up the second-chance romance that unfolds in book two, so expect to be left wanting more.
Overall, I gave This Side 3.75 out of 5 stars. While it wasn't my favorite by this author, I really enjoyed the bond between Brant and Callie Rae, and knowing this book was laying the groundwork for their second-chance romance kept me invested. After that ending, I'm highly anticipating The Other Side and can't wait to see where their story goes next.
Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. I can't wait to read The Other Side when it's available!
This book follows Brant and Callie Rae from the ages of 8 to 18, telling the story of how their relationship began. Most second-chance romances start after the separation, so I appreciated that the author chose to dedicate an entire book to building their history first. While I enjoyed getting to know these characters and watching their relationship develop, I did feel the story was a bit longer than it needed to be. Some parts moved slowly, making it difficult to stay fully engaged. That said, I understand why the author wanted readers to experience the foundation of their relationship before moving into the second-chance romance.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the unwavering loyalty between Brant and Callie Rae. Brant's habit of knocking twice on Callie Rae's window whenever he heard arguing at her house was such a simple but powerful gesture. He was always there when she needed someone, and those moments made it easy to root for them. Their relationship was the highlight of the story for me, and it was one of the biggest reasons this book earned its rating.
Before adding this book to your TBR, there are two things you should know. First, the story covers some heavy topics, so I highly recommend checking the trigger warnings beforehand. Second, this book does not end with a happily ever after. As the first half of a duet, its purpose is to set up the second-chance romance that unfolds in book two, so expect to be left wanting more.
Overall, I gave This Side 3.75 out of 5 stars. While it wasn't my favorite by this author, I really enjoyed the bond between Brant and Callie Rae, and knowing this book was laying the groundwork for their second-chance romance kept me invested. After that ending, I'm highly anticipating The Other Side and can't wait to see where their story goes next.
Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. I can't wait to read The Other Side when it's available!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
There are books you enjoy… and then there are books that make you 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍. 💕
This one gave me butterflies, made me cry, made me smile, made me angry, and took me through just about every emotion. To me, that’s one of the greatest qualities a storyteller can have. I was completely invested in these characters from beginning to end and found myself rooting for them every step of the way. One thing I especially appreciated was that they never got on my nerves, which is surprisingly rare for me, especially with younger protagonists. They felt authentic without coming across as immature.
I also loved the central conflict near the end. It felt true to Brant’s character and to everything he had experienced throughout the story. His actions made sense, and the resolution felt both satisfying and believable. I also appreciated how the confrontation ended. It delivered emotional payoff without betraying the characters or relying on revenge for the sake of revenge.
The flash forwards took me a little while to warm up to. At first, I felt like they interrupted the flow of the story, and I wondered if there might have been another way to introduce them. But as the novel progressed, I understood their purpose and grew to appreciate how they built anticipation for what was coming.
I also have to admit that when I realized the book would end with a flash forward, I was initially disappointed because I thought the previous chapter had wrapped up the story beautifully. Then I read the final few lines… and suddenly I needed to know why it was “too late.” It was an excellent hook that left me genuinely excited for the sequel.
The only reason this wasn’t a full five-star read for me comes down to a few small writing choices. The repeated use of both the book’s title and the sequel’s title was a little too frequent for my taste, particularly in the final chapter (before the flash forward). I also found the repeated use of the word “wagging” instead of “nodding” or “shaking” a character’s head distracting. These are very personal preferences, but they stood out enough to pull me out of the story from time to time.
Even so, this came very close to being a five-star read. Drea Scott has an incredible ability to create characters you genuinely care about and a story that keeps you emotionally invested from beginning to end.
I can’t wait to read the sequel, and I’ll definitely be checking out Drea Scott’s other books. I’m so grateful I got to meet these characters and discover such a talented new author. Thank you so much for choosing me as an ARC reader. I’m incredibly grateful to have discovered Drea Scott and to have spent time with her characters.
There are books you enjoy… and then there are books that make you 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍. 💕
This one gave me butterflies, made me cry, made me smile, made me angry, and took me through just about every emotion. To me, that’s one of the greatest qualities a storyteller can have. I was completely invested in these characters from beginning to end and found myself rooting for them every step of the way. One thing I especially appreciated was that they never got on my nerves, which is surprisingly rare for me, especially with younger protagonists. They felt authentic without coming across as immature.
I also loved the central conflict near the end. It felt true to Brant’s character and to everything he had experienced throughout the story. His actions made sense, and the resolution felt both satisfying and believable. I also appreciated how the confrontation ended. It delivered emotional payoff without betraying the characters or relying on revenge for the sake of revenge.
The flash forwards took me a little while to warm up to. At first, I felt like they interrupted the flow of the story, and I wondered if there might have been another way to introduce them. But as the novel progressed, I understood their purpose and grew to appreciate how they built anticipation for what was coming.
I also have to admit that when I realized the book would end with a flash forward, I was initially disappointed because I thought the previous chapter had wrapped up the story beautifully. Then I read the final few lines… and suddenly I needed to know why it was “too late.” It was an excellent hook that left me genuinely excited for the sequel.
The only reason this wasn’t a full five-star read for me comes down to a few small writing choices. The repeated use of both the book’s title and the sequel’s title was a little too frequent for my taste, particularly in the final chapter (before the flash forward). I also found the repeated use of the word “wagging” instead of “nodding” or “shaking” a character’s head distracting. These are very personal preferences, but they stood out enough to pull me out of the story from time to time.
Even so, this came very close to being a five-star read. Drea Scott has an incredible ability to create characters you genuinely care about and a story that keeps you emotionally invested from beginning to end.
I can’t wait to read the sequel, and I’ll definitely be checking out Drea Scott’s other books. I’m so grateful I got to meet these characters and discover such a talented new author. Thank you so much for choosing me as an ARC reader. I’m incredibly grateful to have discovered Drea Scott and to have spent time with her characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Did I finish this book and immediately message Drea Scott on instagram to tell her I was crying on my couch? Yes. Yes I did.
Thank you to Luna Literary and Drea Scott for letting me be an early reader of this novel! I did not expect it to hit me the way that it did but I truly think Scott took me back to childhood. Please keep in mind that this book is the first of a Duet and that this first book is technically a young adult novel. I’m so happy Drea decided to tell both parts of this story-from childhood in book one to adulthood in book two.
The two main characters went through so much in their young age and having each other to rely on was the only thing to get them through. In my personal opinion this book needs to blow up on social media and I’ll be recommending it to as many people as I can. This book was a little bit heartbreaking at times but a lot of love and joy was also found. I’ve requested to be an ARC reader for book two and I’m praying I get to read it early but if I don’t get the chance I can still say I will be reading it as soon as it releases!!
The trigger warnings will tell you about the aspects of abuse that Scott writes about and while yes she 100% does tackle them, she does so in a way that wasn’t too heavy in my opinion. Of course everyone is different when it comes to trigger warnings but overall they added to the novel and were needed to show the strength and connection between the two main characters.
Some parts of the book are flash forward moments and while the first couple sections I read left me wondering why they were there they did end up making sense and dots connected connected so just take those as they come!
I really hope more people will read this book because Drea Scott, Callie Rae, and Brant deserve it. I will be not so patiently waiting for book two and what I can only hope will be their HEA.
@jessiesbooknook_
Thank you to Luna Literary and Drea Scott for letting me be an early reader of this novel! I did not expect it to hit me the way that it did but I truly think Scott took me back to childhood. Please keep in mind that this book is the first of a Duet and that this first book is technically a young adult novel. I’m so happy Drea decided to tell both parts of this story-from childhood in book one to adulthood in book two.
The two main characters went through so much in their young age and having each other to rely on was the only thing to get them through. In my personal opinion this book needs to blow up on social media and I’ll be recommending it to as many people as I can. This book was a little bit heartbreaking at times but a lot of love and joy was also found. I’ve requested to be an ARC reader for book two and I’m praying I get to read it early but if I don’t get the chance I can still say I will be reading it as soon as it releases!!
The trigger warnings will tell you about the aspects of abuse that Scott writes about and while yes she 100% does tackle them, she does so in a way that wasn’t too heavy in my opinion. Of course everyone is different when it comes to trigger warnings but overall they added to the novel and were needed to show the strength and connection between the two main characters.
Some parts of the book are flash forward moments and while the first couple sections I read left me wondering why they were there they did end up making sense and dots connected connected so just take those as they come!
I really hope more people will read this book because Drea Scott, Callie Rae, and Brant deserve it. I will be not so patiently waiting for book two and what I can only hope will be their HEA.
@jessiesbooknook_
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2026
“You’re perfect baby” I whisper the words, snuggling her so tight. My breath sends a gentle ripple through her, and a patch of relief lays over my heart “My Callie is so perfect”
🧡 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🕊️ First/Young Love
🧡 Traumatic Upbringings
🕊️ Soulmates
🧡 Neighbors in a trailer park
🕊️ Virgin MMC x Virgin FMC
🧡 Boy Obsessed & Protective AF
🕊️ Dual POV
🧡 Slow Burn (until they are 18)
🕊️ YA/NA Romance
🧡 Ends on a Cliffhanger
The relationship between Callie and Brent is beautiful—and heartbreaking—from the very beginning. They both live in a trailer park in dire living conditions: Brent has been dealing with his mother's addiction since he was very young, while Callie faces psychological, physical, and verbal abuse from her father. Amidst all this chaos, they find small moments of happiness when they are together.
They both work hard to change their future; they want to get out of there and avoid becoming like their parents. And when that moment comes, it is heartbreaking, as they go their separate ways without knowing anything about each other—about the person who mattered so much.
This book is about soulmates and how they don't always end up together.
Brent is obsessed with Callie; he loves her in a way no one ever has, and he wants her to have the best life possible. He does everything for her and would give his life to see her happy.
Callie, for her part, would do the same for Brent, because he was always her person.
I loved this book and Callie and Brent's story; I fell in love with their love.
I am eagerly awaiting the second book.
Note: This book ends on a cliffhanger, so keep that in mind if you plan to read it.
Thanks to the author, Drea Scott, and to Luna for this ARC.
🧡 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🕊️ First/Young Love
🧡 Traumatic Upbringings
🕊️ Soulmates
🧡 Neighbors in a trailer park
🕊️ Virgin MMC x Virgin FMC
🧡 Boy Obsessed & Protective AF
🕊️ Dual POV
🧡 Slow Burn (until they are 18)
🕊️ YA/NA Romance
🧡 Ends on a Cliffhanger
The relationship between Callie and Brent is beautiful—and heartbreaking—from the very beginning. They both live in a trailer park in dire living conditions: Brent has been dealing with his mother's addiction since he was very young, while Callie faces psychological, physical, and verbal abuse from her father. Amidst all this chaos, they find small moments of happiness when they are together.
They both work hard to change their future; they want to get out of there and avoid becoming like their parents. And when that moment comes, it is heartbreaking, as they go their separate ways without knowing anything about each other—about the person who mattered so much.
This book is about soulmates and how they don't always end up together.
Brent is obsessed with Callie; he loves her in a way no one ever has, and he wants her to have the best life possible. He does everything for her and would give his life to see her happy.
Callie, for her part, would do the same for Brent, because he was always her person.
I loved this book and Callie and Brent's story; I fell in love with their love.
I am eagerly awaiting the second book.
Note: This book ends on a cliffhanger, so keep that in mind if you plan to read it.
Thanks to the author, Drea Scott, and to Luna for this ARC.
July 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 unforgettable stars.
Drea Scott absolutely shattered my heart with Callie Rae and Brant’s story. From the very first chapter, I was completely invested in their journey. Their connection felt raw, authentic, and beautifully imperfect. Every moment they shared had me rooting for them, even when life and their own pasts seemed determined to keep them apart.
Callie Rae is such a resilient heroine. Watching her navigate her fears while slowly allowing herself to be vulnerable was both heartbreaking and inspiring. And Brant completely stole my heart. He’s protective, devoted, and so deeply layered that I found myself feeling every ounce of his internal struggle. Neither of them is perfect, and that’s exactly what made their love story feel so real.
The emotional depth in this book is what truly sets it apart. It isn’t just about romance. It’s about healing, trust, forgiveness, and finding the courage to love despite the scars we carry. Drea Scott has a way of making every emotion leap off the page. I laughed, smiled, held my breath, and by the end my heart was absolutely in pieces.
That ending! I genuinely wasn’t prepared. Just when I thought I knew where the story was headed, everything unraveled, leaving me desperate for answers and hoping these two can somehow find their way back to each other.
I don’t think I’ve turned the final page of a book this eager to dive into The Other Side in a long time. The anticipation is almost unbearable, and I already know I’ll be clearing my schedule the moment it’s in my hands. Callie Rae and Brant have completely captured my heart, and I need their story to continue.
An emotional, beautifully written romance that will stay with me long after the last page. I cannot wait for The Other Side. 🥹
5 unforgettable stars.
Drea Scott absolutely shattered my heart with Callie Rae and Brant’s story. From the very first chapter, I was completely invested in their journey. Their connection felt raw, authentic, and beautifully imperfect. Every moment they shared had me rooting for them, even when life and their own pasts seemed determined to keep them apart.
Callie Rae is such a resilient heroine. Watching her navigate her fears while slowly allowing herself to be vulnerable was both heartbreaking and inspiring. And Brant completely stole my heart. He’s protective, devoted, and so deeply layered that I found myself feeling every ounce of his internal struggle. Neither of them is perfect, and that’s exactly what made their love story feel so real.
The emotional depth in this book is what truly sets it apart. It isn’t just about romance. It’s about healing, trust, forgiveness, and finding the courage to love despite the scars we carry. Drea Scott has a way of making every emotion leap off the page. I laughed, smiled, held my breath, and by the end my heart was absolutely in pieces.
That ending! I genuinely wasn’t prepared. Just when I thought I knew where the story was headed, everything unraveled, leaving me desperate for answers and hoping these two can somehow find their way back to each other.
I don’t think I’ve turned the final page of a book this eager to dive into The Other Side in a long time. The anticipation is almost unbearable, and I already know I’ll be clearing my schedule the moment it’s in my hands. Callie Rae and Brant have completely captured my heart, and I need their story to continue.
An emotional, beautifully written romance that will stay with me long after the last page. I cannot wait for The Other Side. 🥹
September 4, 2026
Sometimes in our lives, at a time when it matters the most, we cross paths with someone who will change our lives forever. They become our solace, they become our refuge, they become our home.
This is exactly what happens to Callie Rae and Brant when their paths cross at 8-years-old in a patch of pines near their trailer park homes.
In a journey through life that will bring you through the eyes of two kids who want nothing more than to get away from the trauma they endure at the hands of their parents and make their own way in the world, we see how Drea Scott masterfully places you on the emotional rollercoaster of two kids who grew up before they had to. They cling to each other and become one while also encouraging each other to forge ahead and do everything they can to leave their current life behind after high school.
And just like so many of us, everything changes when they turn 18. Everything.
This book is stunningly beautiful with its prose and how well Scott uses wordcraft to bring us into the minds and hearts of the characters. Two words of caution I’ll share on behalf of the author, however. First, be sure to read the content warnings at the beginning of the book. There are heavy themes in here that many of us can relate to, and Scott advises her readers to take this seriously. Second, Scott always wants the HEA for her characters, and while there is closure at the end of book one - she also gives the reader a heads up that this is a duet and you do need to read BOTH books in order to get there.
But don’t worry. If you read this book as quickly as I did - I could not put it down - you’ll get there quickly.
This is exactly what happens to Callie Rae and Brant when their paths cross at 8-years-old in a patch of pines near their trailer park homes.
In a journey through life that will bring you through the eyes of two kids who want nothing more than to get away from the trauma they endure at the hands of their parents and make their own way in the world, we see how Drea Scott masterfully places you on the emotional rollercoaster of two kids who grew up before they had to. They cling to each other and become one while also encouraging each other to forge ahead and do everything they can to leave their current life behind after high school.
And just like so many of us, everything changes when they turn 18. Everything.
This book is stunningly beautiful with its prose and how well Scott uses wordcraft to bring us into the minds and hearts of the characters. Two words of caution I’ll share on behalf of the author, however. First, be sure to read the content warnings at the beginning of the book. There are heavy themes in here that many of us can relate to, and Scott advises her readers to take this seriously. Second, Scott always wants the HEA for her characters, and while there is closure at the end of book one - she also gives the reader a heads up that this is a duet and you do need to read BOTH books in order to get there.
But don’t worry. If you read this book as quickly as I did - I could not put it down - you’ll get there quickly.
June 27, 2026
I recieved a gifted copy, these are my honest reviews.
A story about young love. Two kids who are dealing with their own situations with a parent who is suppose to love and nurture them. They find solace and safety in each other.
So this story does take place when they are younger and flash forwards a few different years into the future. I loved how Drea did this. And how book 2 will play out. It wasn’t confusing piecing the different timelines. Most books when they do flashbacks can get confusing for me when it goes back and forth so I tend to dislike those kinds of books. Drea did this amazingly well deciding to split it into a duet with the timelines like this. I love that we get the full story of when they are younger and seeing them as adults little by little.
I have always loved Drea’s writing. I knew this book would be emotional and gut wrenching. To see this young love play out was sweet. All they had was each other and they protected each other.
I love the flash forwards. Seeing them as adults and viewing back on their childhood, that connection was still there. I loved that they didn’t hold each other back and that they knew what the future would be like. To have the opposite of what they grew up with. It’s such a strong love to want better for the other person.
I knew the cliffhanger was coming and I’m so excited to see that first meeting. Drea this was so goooood!! I think I love this one more than Fly Back To Me and that is my absolute favorite.
*marking as spoilers cause I never know lol
A story about young love. Two kids who are dealing with their own situations with a parent who is suppose to love and nurture them. They find solace and safety in each other.
So this story does take place when they are younger and flash forwards a few different years into the future. I loved how Drea did this. And how book 2 will play out. It wasn’t confusing piecing the different timelines. Most books when they do flashbacks can get confusing for me when it goes back and forth so I tend to dislike those kinds of books. Drea did this amazingly well deciding to split it into a duet with the timelines like this. I love that we get the full story of when they are younger and seeing them as adults little by little.
I have always loved Drea’s writing. I knew this book would be emotional and gut wrenching. To see this young love play out was sweet. All they had was each other and they protected each other.
I love the flash forwards. Seeing them as adults and viewing back on their childhood, that connection was still there. I loved that they didn’t hold each other back and that they knew what the future would be like. To have the opposite of what they grew up with. It’s such a strong love to want better for the other person.
I knew the cliffhanger was coming and I’m so excited to see that first meeting. Drea this was so goooood!! I think I love this one more than Fly Back To Me and that is my absolute favorite.
*marking as spoilers cause I never know lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I read This Side as an ARC reader. It is a raw, real and relatable story of childhood friends growing up in small town West Virginia. They cling to each other over the years in an effort to mutually overcome the hands they were dealt and ultimately grow closer as a result.
As a Mountaineer, I loved the fact that this book takes place in West Virginia. Furthermore, it was cool to see nods to the area that really sell the setting, such as a Brad Paisley poster, or mentions of the hills surrounding the trailer park. Unfortunately, the references did start to take away from the story by the end and I sometimes wondered if the book was about the MC's love for the singer, rather than her relationships with her friend and father.
The author flawlessly captures what it's like to grow up in an abusive, low-income family, and the portrayal of the losses that the characters go through are so strong that you'll find yourself wondering if you actually experienced it with them. I just wish the timeline didn't jump around as much, because it made the book difficult to follow at times. That being said, This Side will make to you laugh, cry, and scream. One page you'll be so heartbroken you don't know if you can keep reading and the next page you'll be wondering how late you'll have to stay up to finish it.
This Side is a fantastic friends to lovers story with a cliff hanger that will have you marking your calendar for book two. You'll especially love it if you're a sucker for a West Virginia setting like I am!
As a Mountaineer, I loved the fact that this book takes place in West Virginia. Furthermore, it was cool to see nods to the area that really sell the setting, such as a Brad Paisley poster, or mentions of the hills surrounding the trailer park. Unfortunately, the references did start to take away from the story by the end and I sometimes wondered if the book was about the MC's love for the singer, rather than her relationships with her friend and father.
The author flawlessly captures what it's like to grow up in an abusive, low-income family, and the portrayal of the losses that the characters go through are so strong that you'll find yourself wondering if you actually experienced it with them. I just wish the timeline didn't jump around as much, because it made the book difficult to follow at times. That being said, This Side will make to you laugh, cry, and scream. One page you'll be so heartbroken you don't know if you can keep reading and the next page you'll be wondering how late you'll have to stay up to finish it.
This Side is a fantastic friends to lovers story with a cliff hanger that will have you marking your calendar for book two. You'll especially love it if you're a sucker for a West Virginia setting like I am!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Drea!!! What did I just read?! This Side is one of the rare stories that settled deep in my heart and refused to let go.
Brant and Callie aren’t just characters you root for…they feel like two kids carrying burdens no child ever should. Watching them find comfort, hope, and a safe place in each other was both beautiful and heartbreaking. Their connection grows naturally over the years, making every small moment between them feel significant.
This story doesn’t sugarcoat the realities of poverty, trauma, addiction, or abuse. It’s honest, emotional, and at times incredibly difficult to read, but that’s exactly what made it so powerful. Even in the darkest moments, there’s a thread of hope woven through every chapter.
I loved how the author made the setting feel alive. It wasn’t just a backdrop, it became part of the story, adding so much depth and authenticity to the characters’ journey.
Fair warning: the timeline jumps around, so I had to pay attention, but once everything started falling into place, I couldn’t put it down. The final chapters completely wrecked me, and that ending left me desperate for more.
If you love emotional, character-driven romances with childhood friends, slow-burning feelings, and a story that will put your heart through the wringer, don’t skip this one.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for book two because I need to know what happens next. 💛
Thank you to the Author and to Luna Lit for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Drea!!! What did I just read?! This Side is one of the rare stories that settled deep in my heart and refused to let go.
Brant and Callie aren’t just characters you root for…they feel like two kids carrying burdens no child ever should. Watching them find comfort, hope, and a safe place in each other was both beautiful and heartbreaking. Their connection grows naturally over the years, making every small moment between them feel significant.
This story doesn’t sugarcoat the realities of poverty, trauma, addiction, or abuse. It’s honest, emotional, and at times incredibly difficult to read, but that’s exactly what made it so powerful. Even in the darkest moments, there’s a thread of hope woven through every chapter.
I loved how the author made the setting feel alive. It wasn’t just a backdrop, it became part of the story, adding so much depth and authenticity to the characters’ journey.
Fair warning: the timeline jumps around, so I had to pay attention, but once everything started falling into place, I couldn’t put it down. The final chapters completely wrecked me, and that ending left me desperate for more.
If you love emotional, character-driven romances with childhood friends, slow-burning feelings, and a story that will put your heart through the wringer, don’t skip this one.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for book two because I need to know what happens next. 💛
Thank you to the Author and to Luna Lit for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This Side by Drea Scott is the compelling first book in the Wings of Two duet.
The main story unfolds over a pivitol ten year period from the main characters childhood to young adulthood between the ages of 8 and 18. In a refreshing departure from the all too familiar flashbacks this book contains flashforwards, giving insights into the characters lives after they departed their hometown for college and beyond.
The story centres on Callie Rae and Brant, who first cross paths at 8 years old when Brant moves into the same trailer park. Both characters carry profound personal traumas from a young age, and as the years progress Callie in particular faces many more.
Whilst at its heart the book is an exploration of friendship, slowly evolving trust and deep seated love, the author tackles the heavier, more emotionally charged themes with a high level of sensitivity, such as: domestic abuse and neglect, alcohol dependency and the loss of parents.
Whilst these themes could be triggering for some readers, I felt the darker subjects were handled with a level of care that ensured they served the story rather than feeling gratuitous.
The story was exceptionally well written, with profound character arcs that showed genuine, earned maturity over a decade.
It's worth noting that there is no happy ending in this installment, perfectly setting the stage for the final book in this duet.
Overall I found this to be a gripping and emotional read that left me highly anticipating book 2.
The main story unfolds over a pivitol ten year period from the main characters childhood to young adulthood between the ages of 8 and 18. In a refreshing departure from the all too familiar flashbacks this book contains flashforwards, giving insights into the characters lives after they departed their hometown for college and beyond.
The story centres on Callie Rae and Brant, who first cross paths at 8 years old when Brant moves into the same trailer park. Both characters carry profound personal traumas from a young age, and as the years progress Callie in particular faces many more.
Whilst at its heart the book is an exploration of friendship, slowly evolving trust and deep seated love, the author tackles the heavier, more emotionally charged themes with a high level of sensitivity, such as: domestic abuse and neglect, alcohol dependency and the loss of parents.
Whilst these themes could be triggering for some readers, I felt the darker subjects were handled with a level of care that ensured they served the story rather than feeling gratuitous.
The story was exceptionally well written, with profound character arcs that showed genuine, earned maturity over a decade.
It's worth noting that there is no happy ending in this installment, perfectly setting the stage for the final book in this duet.
Overall I found this to be a gripping and emotional read that left me highly anticipating book 2.
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