What do you think?
Collins
Some summers stay with you forever.
Others haunt you.
The summer before Johnnie’s senior year was supposed to be simple.
A fresh start. A quiet life with her spunky Nan. A welcome break from everything she thought she knew.
Until she met them.
The Combs boys next door—Campbell and Crandall, identical in face but not in spirit…and Collins.
Collins, who changed everything.
What began as late-night four-wheeler rides and easy conversation turned into something deeper, something neither of them was prepared for. The kind of love that feels infinite…until it isn’t.
Because when summer came to an end, so did everything else.
It shattered.
She left without a goodbye. Without an explanation. Without him.
Ten years later, she returns to the place she swore she’d never see again. Forced to face loss, grief and the past she’s spent a decade trying to outrun.
But some things never fade—memories. Feelings.
Being back means facing the yesterdays she buried and the boy she never stopped loving.
How can she walk away again?
How can he let her go a second time?
Because the truth doesn’t stay hidden forever.
And this time…
it might destroy them both.
Others haunt you.
The summer before Johnnie’s senior year was supposed to be simple.
A fresh start. A quiet life with her spunky Nan. A welcome break from everything she thought she knew.
Until she met them.
The Combs boys next door—Campbell and Crandall, identical in face but not in spirit…and Collins.
Collins, who changed everything.
What began as late-night four-wheeler rides and easy conversation turned into something deeper, something neither of them was prepared for. The kind of love that feels infinite…until it isn’t.
Because when summer came to an end, so did everything else.
It shattered.
She left without a goodbye. Without an explanation. Without him.
Ten years later, she returns to the place she swore she’d never see again. Forced to face loss, grief and the past she’s spent a decade trying to outrun.
But some things never fade—memories. Feelings.
Being back means facing the yesterdays she buried and the boy she never stopped loving.
How can she walk away again?
How can he let her go a second time?
Because the truth doesn’t stay hidden forever.
And this time…
it might destroy them both.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
Did Not Finish
October 6, 2026Прочитала до 69%, бо просто стало цікаво, що ж там за проблема така
Вобще не зачепила книга
Ідея хороша, а от реалізація не дуже
В їх історію кохання геть не повірила
Вобще не зачепила книга
Ідея хороша, а от реалізація не дуже
В їх історію кохання геть не повірила
May 29, 2026
🅱🅴🆃🅰 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
“𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙣.”
🛻 𝓒𝓸𝓵𝓵𝓲𝓷𝓼 🛻
✍🏼 𝙰𝚖𝚋𝚎𝚛 𝙴𝚕𝚒𝚣𝚊𝚋𝚎𝚝𝚑
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🗓️ 𝟶𝟽.𝟷𝟷.𝟸𝟼
First and foremost, thank you to Amber for trusting me with her baby. I’m so honored that I had the privilege of beta reading this. I’m so incredibly proud of you and this amazing story. You’re going places, girl, and I can’t wait to be along for the ride, cheering you on every step of the way.
Alright, alright…into the review…
Where are my ‘90s era peeps!? Holy crap, you’re gonna LOVE this! It’s like taking a walk down memory lane! From the playlist to all the little nods and trinkets, you’re going to feel like you stepped into a time machine. Ughhhh!!! I ate every second of it up!
This is a beautiful love story that’s going to have you feeling ALL. THE. FECKIN. THINGS. I swooned. I laughed. I cried. I felt everything! Gahhhhh. I love Johnny and Collins with my whole heart! This is second chance romance done epically! And sassy Gran!? Say less. I hope I’m just like her when I’m old(er).
The PERFECT summer read, y’all! Please do yourself a favor and add it, bump it, do whatever you must to get this on your TBR. You will not regret it!
So like…my girl Amber, I need book 2!
🌭 ꜰᴏᴜɴᴅ ꜰᴀᴍɪʟʏ
🐬 ꜱᴇᴄᴏɴᴅ ᴄʜᴀɴᴄᴇ
🌭 ꜱᴍᴀʟʟ ᴛᴏᴡɴ
🐬 ꜱᴘᴜɴᴋʏ ɢʀᴀɴɴʏ
🌭 ᴀɴɢꜱᴛ / ꜱᴡᴏᴏɴ
🐬 ɢᴏʟᴅᴇɴ ʀᴇᴛʀɪᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴍᴍᴄ
🌭 ᴛʀᴀᴜᴍᴀ / ʜᴇᴀʟɪɴɢ
🐬 ꜱᴇᴄʀᴇᴛ ᴛᴀᴛᴛᴏᴏ
🌭 ᴅᴜᴀʟ ᴛɪᴍᴇʟɪɴᴇ / ᴘᴏᴠ
🐬 ꜱᴜᴍᴍᴇʀ ʟᴏᴠᴇ
🌭 ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ʟᴏᴠᴇ / ꜱᴏᴜʟᴍᴀᴛᴇ
“𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙣.”
🛻 𝓒𝓸𝓵𝓵𝓲𝓷𝓼 🛻
✍🏼 𝙰𝚖𝚋𝚎𝚛 𝙴𝚕𝚒𝚣𝚊𝚋𝚎𝚝𝚑
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🗓️ 𝟶𝟽.𝟷𝟷.𝟸𝟼
First and foremost, thank you to Amber for trusting me with her baby. I’m so honored that I had the privilege of beta reading this. I’m so incredibly proud of you and this amazing story. You’re going places, girl, and I can’t wait to be along for the ride, cheering you on every step of the way.
Alright, alright…into the review…
Where are my ‘90s era peeps!? Holy crap, you’re gonna LOVE this! It’s like taking a walk down memory lane! From the playlist to all the little nods and trinkets, you’re going to feel like you stepped into a time machine. Ughhhh!!! I ate every second of it up!
This is a beautiful love story that’s going to have you feeling ALL. THE. FECKIN. THINGS. I swooned. I laughed. I cried. I felt everything! Gahhhhh. I love Johnny and Collins with my whole heart! This is second chance romance done epically! And sassy Gran!? Say less. I hope I’m just like her when I’m old(er).
The PERFECT summer read, y’all! Please do yourself a favor and add it, bump it, do whatever you must to get this on your TBR. You will not regret it!
So like…my girl Amber, I need book 2!
🌭 ꜰᴏᴜɴᴅ ꜰᴀᴍɪʟʏ
🐬 ꜱᴇᴄᴏɴᴅ ᴄʜᴀɴᴄᴇ
🌭 ꜱᴍᴀʟʟ ᴛᴏᴡɴ
🐬 ꜱᴘᴜɴᴋʏ ɢʀᴀɴɴʏ
🌭 ᴀɴɢꜱᴛ / ꜱᴡᴏᴏɴ
🐬 ɢᴏʟᴅᴇɴ ʀᴇᴛʀɪᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴍᴍᴄ
🌭 ᴛʀᴀᴜᴍᴀ / ʜᴇᴀʟɪɴɢ
🐬 ꜱᴇᴄʀᴇᴛ ᴛᴀᴛᴛᴏᴏ
🌭 ᴅᴜᴀʟ ᴛɪᴍᴇʟɪɴᴇ / ᴘᴏᴠ
🐬 ꜱᴜᴍᴍᴇʀ ʟᴏᴠᴇ
🌭 ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ʟᴏᴠᴇ / ꜱᴏᴜʟᴍᴀᴛᴇ
July 11, 2026
If there are three things I love in a book, it would include a music component that transports me, a second chance romance where I get to fall in love with them twice, and third, feeling a connection to the story.
Collins had all three.
The way this story had me feeling so nostalgic, with the music, the 90s/early 2000s references that instantly transported me back to my childhood and teenage years, and the feeling of young love and finding your person.. it was all so memorable for me.
The past and present povs had me eagerly turning the pages to learn more, about what went wrong, what happened in their time apart, and how they would inevitably come back together. I thought it was done so seamlessly between the timelines.
Amber's writing was very impressive, especially given that this was a debut novel. The words flowed easily and I could picture it all so clearly. It kept me engaged from start to finish, which isn't always easy to do with life's distractions. But I read this nearly in two sittings, and was finding myself sneaking in a few pages when I found a free moment.
If you love second chance romance, music, and nostalgia and more importantly supporting new authors, I cannot recommend this one enough.
I'm so excited to see where Amber goes from here! A wonderful debut by someone I'm lucky enough to call a friend.
I'm so proud of you Amber!!
Collins had all three.
The way this story had me feeling so nostalgic, with the music, the 90s/early 2000s references that instantly transported me back to my childhood and teenage years, and the feeling of young love and finding your person.. it was all so memorable for me.
The past and present povs had me eagerly turning the pages to learn more, about what went wrong, what happened in their time apart, and how they would inevitably come back together. I thought it was done so seamlessly between the timelines.
Amber's writing was very impressive, especially given that this was a debut novel. The words flowed easily and I could picture it all so clearly. It kept me engaged from start to finish, which isn't always easy to do with life's distractions. But I read this nearly in two sittings, and was finding myself sneaking in a few pages when I found a free moment.
If you love second chance romance, music, and nostalgia and more importantly supporting new authors, I cannot recommend this one enough.
I'm so excited to see where Amber goes from here! A wonderful debut by someone I'm lucky enough to call a friend.
I'm so proud of you Amber!!
October 2, 2026
second chance romances will always have my heart, ugh. 🥹 johnnie and collins..🥹🥹 i hate the way they got brought back together, that was super sad, but what came out of it was so beautiful. 🥹
johnnie was such a fighter, and she took on and went through so much pain. 😭🥹 i definitely teared up at some parts, mostly when he was telling her how much he loved her despite everything… ugh, my heart is in a puddle. 🥹🥹😭 so. freaking. sweet.
“I think that my soul already knows yours, yours knows mine. Souls don’t forget.”
'She was my angel on earth, and now she’s my angel in heaven. That’s why I’m here. No matter how much the memories of this place might hurt, I’m determined to take care of everything and give her the sendoff she deserves.'
' I didn’t want her carrying the weight of anything, not decisions, not logistics. If there was a way to make staying here easier, lighter on her… I was all in. No hesitation. No second thought.' - collins...the man you are 🥹🥹🤩😩😩
johnnie was such a fighter, and she took on and went through so much pain. 😭🥹 i definitely teared up at some parts, mostly when he was telling her how much he loved her despite everything… ugh, my heart is in a puddle. 🥹🥹😭 so. freaking. sweet.
“I think that my soul already knows yours, yours knows mine. Souls don’t forget.”
'She was my angel on earth, and now she’s my angel in heaven. That’s why I’m here. No matter how much the memories of this place might hurt, I’m determined to take care of everything and give her the sendoff she deserves.'
' I didn’t want her carrying the weight of anything, not decisions, not logistics. If there was a way to make staying here easier, lighter on her… I was all in. No hesitation. No second thought.' - collins...the man you are 🥹🥹🤩😩😩
July 12, 2026
The book opens with the FMC, Johnnie, moving in with her Nan at Laken Trailer Park to finish her senior year while her parents relocate for an opportunity they couldn't pass up. She introduces herself to the brothers next door, and her connection with Collins is instant.
They spend the summer falling in love, making unforgettable memories, and dreaming about their future together. Collins lives next door with his twin brothers and carries trauma of his own after losing people closest to him. One quote that completely melted my heart was: "I think that my soul already knows yours. Yours knows mine. Souls don't forget."
Then everything changes.
Something happens that forces Johnnie to leave town, leaving Nan and Collins behind. Ten years later, she's back to plan Nan's funeral and prepare her trailer to be sold. Returning to Laken is difficult enough, but facing Collins after all these years is even harder. Being back forces her to confront the memories and pain she left behind.
I loved the dual timeline and how seamlessly it connected the past with the present, making every emotional moment hit even harder. When Johnnie finally confronts her trauma and shares it with Collins, it feels incredibly authentic and heartbreaking. I was completely invested in these characters and found myself rooting for them from the very beginning.
While this is a beautiful second-chance romance, one of my favorite parts of the story was Johnnie's relationship with her Nan. She was spunky, loving, and full of life, and every scene they shared added so much warmth and heart to the story.
I'm also convinced the title Collins hints that each brother will get his own book. Amber definitely seemed to be dropping breadcrumbs that we'll be returning to Laken, Ohio and I can't wait if that's the case.
They spend the summer falling in love, making unforgettable memories, and dreaming about their future together. Collins lives next door with his twin brothers and carries trauma of his own after losing people closest to him. One quote that completely melted my heart was: "I think that my soul already knows yours. Yours knows mine. Souls don't forget."
Then everything changes.
Something happens that forces Johnnie to leave town, leaving Nan and Collins behind. Ten years later, she's back to plan Nan's funeral and prepare her trailer to be sold. Returning to Laken is difficult enough, but facing Collins after all these years is even harder. Being back forces her to confront the memories and pain she left behind.
I loved the dual timeline and how seamlessly it connected the past with the present, making every emotional moment hit even harder. When Johnnie finally confronts her trauma and shares it with Collins, it feels incredibly authentic and heartbreaking. I was completely invested in these characters and found myself rooting for them from the very beginning.
While this is a beautiful second-chance romance, one of my favorite parts of the story was Johnnie's relationship with her Nan. She was spunky, loving, and full of life, and every scene they shared added so much warmth and heart to the story.
I'm also convinced the title Collins hints that each brother will get his own book. Amber definitely seemed to be dropping breadcrumbs that we'll be returning to Laken, Ohio and I can't wait if that's the case.
July 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Some books just leave you with the biggest smile when you turn the last page and Collins was one of them. 🤍
This is such a beautiful second-chance romance that explores love, healing and finding your way back to the people who feel like home.
What I loved most was the dual POV and the way the story moved between the past and present. It kept me completely invested, constantly wanting to know what had happened between them and why Johnnie had left. When everything finally came together, it was heartbreaking, and Amber Elizabeth handled some incredibly emotional topics with so much care and compassion.
The connection between the characters felt so genuine that I was rooting for them from the very beginning and I loved watching their story unfold.
If you love Jennifer Hartmann’s books as much as I do, I have a feeling this one will be right up your street. 🤍
One of my favourite quotes was:
“When I think about how I love you, Collins… It feels absolutely terrifying, but it makes me feel alive. I think that’s the only kind of love worth having.” 🤍
An easy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me, and I already can’t wait to read whatever Amber Elizabeth writes next.
Happy release day, Amber Elizabeth! I can’t wait for everyone to experience Collins and fall in love with these characters the way I did. 🤍
Thank you so much to Amber Elizabeth and The Author Agency for trusting me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. It was such a pleasure to read. 📚✨
Some books just leave you with the biggest smile when you turn the last page and Collins was one of them. 🤍
This is such a beautiful second-chance romance that explores love, healing and finding your way back to the people who feel like home.
What I loved most was the dual POV and the way the story moved between the past and present. It kept me completely invested, constantly wanting to know what had happened between them and why Johnnie had left. When everything finally came together, it was heartbreaking, and Amber Elizabeth handled some incredibly emotional topics with so much care and compassion.
The connection between the characters felt so genuine that I was rooting for them from the very beginning and I loved watching their story unfold.
If you love Jennifer Hartmann’s books as much as I do, I have a feeling this one will be right up your street. 🤍
One of my favourite quotes was:
“When I think about how I love you, Collins… It feels absolutely terrifying, but it makes me feel alive. I think that’s the only kind of love worth having.” 🤍
An easy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me, and I already can’t wait to read whatever Amber Elizabeth writes next.
Happy release day, Amber Elizabeth! I can’t wait for everyone to experience Collins and fall in love with these characters the way I did. 🤍
Thank you so much to Amber Elizabeth and The Author Agency for trusting me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. It was such a pleasure to read. 📚✨
July 11, 2026
4.5 stars
Congratulations to Amber Elizabeth for a fantastic debut novel. The story told through flashbacks flowed; the characters are relatable. A second chance, so you know I am going to snap the book up. For the most part I went in blind, I am so glad I did. This book surpassed anything I could have thought it would be.
The story hit all my emotions, a slow build because; life. We know Johnnie and Collins belong together; the characters were touch and go for a while. I was hooked from the beginning.
Johnnie and Collins are neighbors one summer. She is living with her nan, and Collins and his brothers are next door. What starts out as friends, becomes sneaking out windows, midnight rides, and first love.
I love how we have started; I am looking forward to more.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Congratulations to Amber Elizabeth for a fantastic debut novel. The story told through flashbacks flowed; the characters are relatable. A second chance, so you know I am going to snap the book up. For the most part I went in blind, I am so glad I did. This book surpassed anything I could have thought it would be.
The story hit all my emotions, a slow build because; life. We know Johnnie and Collins belong together; the characters were touch and go for a while. I was hooked from the beginning.
Johnnie and Collins are neighbors one summer. She is living with her nan, and Collins and his brothers are next door. What starts out as friends, becomes sneaking out windows, midnight rides, and first love.
I love how we have started; I am looking forward to more.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
July 26, 2026
Absolutely heartbreaking, beautiful, and unforgettable. ❤️🩹
Collins completely stole a piece of my heart. Collins and Johnny’s story was the kind of love story that hurt in all the best ways. Their connection felt raw, complicated, and incredibly real, and I found myself emotionally invested in them from beginning to end.
Johnny leaving Collins absolutely wrecked me. Knowing that she still loved him made her decision even more heartbreaking. Watching Collins try to understand how the woman he loved could walk away left me feeling his pain, anger, confusion, and heartbreak right alongside him.
What made this story so powerful for me was that their love wasn’t perfect. They were flawed, they made mistakes, and they carried their own wounds, but their feelings for each other were undeniable. Sometimes loving someone isn’t enough to erase the fear, trauma, and circumstances standing between you.
Collins and Johnny’s story reminded me that some people can leave your life without ever leaving your heart. Their story stayed with me long after I finished reading, and I know these two will be characters I think about for a very long time.
Amber Elizabeth broke my heart, put it through an emotional hurricane, and somehow made me grateful for every tear. 😭❤️
Five stars, absolutely deserved. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Collins completely stole a piece of my heart. Collins and Johnny’s story was the kind of love story that hurt in all the best ways. Their connection felt raw, complicated, and incredibly real, and I found myself emotionally invested in them from beginning to end.
Johnny leaving Collins absolutely wrecked me. Knowing that she still loved him made her decision even more heartbreaking. Watching Collins try to understand how the woman he loved could walk away left me feeling his pain, anger, confusion, and heartbreak right alongside him.
What made this story so powerful for me was that their love wasn’t perfect. They were flawed, they made mistakes, and they carried their own wounds, but their feelings for each other were undeniable. Sometimes loving someone isn’t enough to erase the fear, trauma, and circumstances standing between you.
Collins and Johnny’s story reminded me that some people can leave your life without ever leaving your heart. Their story stayed with me long after I finished reading, and I know these two will be characters I think about for a very long time.
Amber Elizabeth broke my heart, put it through an emotional hurricane, and somehow made me grateful for every tear. 😭❤️
Five stars, absolutely deserved. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 5, 2026
What a debut novel!!
Collins is the kind of book you pick up when you just want to be completely transported back in time. Her style of writing somehow made me feel so carefree while reading this but also felt like I was wrapped up in the biggest hug! This one will fill your heart, shatter it, but will carefully put it back together again.
I really loved the dual timeline (2000 and 2010) and the multiple POVs. It had me hooked from the beginning, and I was dying to figure out the WHY behind everything.
I adored Johnnie and Collins. From the moment they met when they were younger, you could tell they had something really special. Their connection felt so natural, and you could still feel that love and bond in the present timeline. Collins is so patient and understanding, loving Johnnie through all of the uncertainty. Johnnie, ugh, my heart absolutely broke for her, but I also admired how incredibly strong she was through it all.
I also loved getting little glimpses of the rest of the characters, and now I can't wait to continue with the rest of the series!
Tropes
•nostalgic vibes
•first loves
•second chance romance
•grief/healing
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 1🌶️
Collins is the kind of book you pick up when you just want to be completely transported back in time. Her style of writing somehow made me feel so carefree while reading this but also felt like I was wrapped up in the biggest hug! This one will fill your heart, shatter it, but will carefully put it back together again.
I really loved the dual timeline (2000 and 2010) and the multiple POVs. It had me hooked from the beginning, and I was dying to figure out the WHY behind everything.
I adored Johnnie and Collins. From the moment they met when they were younger, you could tell they had something really special. Their connection felt so natural, and you could still feel that love and bond in the present timeline. Collins is so patient and understanding, loving Johnnie through all of the uncertainty. Johnnie, ugh, my heart absolutely broke for her, but I also admired how incredibly strong she was through it all.
I also loved getting little glimpses of the rest of the characters, and now I can't wait to continue with the rest of the series!
Tropes
•nostalgic vibes
•first loves
•second chance romance
•grief/healing
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 1🌶️
July 11, 2026
4.5⭐️
Falling in love and it being your first love is one of my favorites to read. The love that consumes you is all encompassing.
From the teenage angst,all the nerves,and swarm of butterflies, while getting to know someone and as a reader you go through all the emotions with them. You fall in love alongside Johnnie and Collins.
The dual pov and present and past chapters were written so well and in such a way where everything hits harder. You know something big is coming and its going to hurt and you feel that hurt for Johnnie and Collins
The second chance emotions are just as overwhelming. The hesitation, uncertainty, the longing, the longing! and the memories that rush in falling in love all over again.
There is growth, healing, and the characters seem very real. Their warmth spreads through the pages
This was really a fantasic debut! It was beautiful and takes you on an emotional journey
The 90's and early 200's nostalgia was a great addition. Johhnie stays with her grandmother for a summer in small town Laken Ohio and meets the Combs brothers next door.
Nan and Johnnie's relationship is so special and I liked how Nan had even an impact on the brothers lives
Falling in love and it being your first love is one of my favorites to read. The love that consumes you is all encompassing.
From the teenage angst,all the nerves,and swarm of butterflies, while getting to know someone and as a reader you go through all the emotions with them. You fall in love alongside Johnnie and Collins.
The dual pov and present and past chapters were written so well and in such a way where everything hits harder. You know something big is coming and its going to hurt and you feel that hurt for Johnnie and Collins
The second chance emotions are just as overwhelming. The hesitation, uncertainty, the longing, the longing! and the memories that rush in falling in love all over again.
There is growth, healing, and the characters seem very real. Their warmth spreads through the pages
This was really a fantasic debut! It was beautiful and takes you on an emotional journey
The 90's and early 200's nostalgia was a great addition. Johhnie stays with her grandmother for a summer in small town Laken Ohio and meets the Combs brothers next door.
Nan and Johnnie's relationship is so special and I liked how Nan had even an impact on the brothers lives
July 11, 2026
What a privilege it was to be able to read this debut novel from Amber Elizabeth! Collins. What a ride this love story was. I’m absolutely loving second chance romances where the characters are suddenly torn apart and you have to continue reading to find out what happened in that moment. I’m also loving the dual timeline. I fell in love with Collins and Johnnie. Their love story was beautiful, yet completely shattered me. This was an absolute easy five star read for me. Ugly crying was involved, but it just meant this book really made me feel all the emotions the characters were feeling. To me, that is a job well done. I cannot wait for more books from Amber Elizabeth.
July 14, 2026
“I think that my soul already knows yours, yours knows mine. Souls don’t forget.”
literally cannot believe this is Amber’s debut novel. it’s packed full of angst, love, grief, and so many emotions. the last 20% almost ruined me but the ending completely put me back together. Collins & Johnnie are just so beautiful together and I loved every second of this. can’t wait to read the next one!!!!!
read if you looove…
✨second chance
✨dual timelines
✨grief rep
✨next door neighbors
✨found family
literally cannot believe this is Amber’s debut novel. it’s packed full of angst, love, grief, and so many emotions. the last 20% almost ruined me but the ending completely put me back together. Collins & Johnnie are just so beautiful together and I loved every second of this. can’t wait to read the next one!!!!!
read if you looove…
✨second chance
✨dual timelines
✨grief rep
✨next door neighbors
✨found family
July 11, 2026
Collins is the perfect book to dive into for those who love a story that will break their heart and put it back together with all the raw emotions it evokes. With the dual timelines, it gives the perfect insight into Collins and Johnnie.
Collins is a walking green flag, he is sweet, caring and so in love with Johnnie. Johnnie is back after ten years and is keeping a secret. When this secret is revealed, the emotions poured out!
The perfect found family with a second chance romance.
Collins is a walking green flag, he is sweet, caring and so in love with Johnnie. Johnnie is back after ten years and is keeping a secret. When this secret is revealed, the emotions poured out!
The perfect found family with a second chance romance.
July 12, 2026
This book had me on an emotional rollercoaster but in the best way possible. There were several times in the book it reminded me of my husband and I’s relationship and marriage! What a great first novel to the author, keep them coming!! I REALLY hope we get books for the other Combs brothers!! 😍 Big shoutout and thanks to The Author Agency & the author, Amber Elizabeth for the ARC copy!!
July 17, 2026
Great read with lots of hurt, second chances, love. It starts off so nicely and I loved seeing the past and present while reading. Nan was amazing and I couldn’t get enough of her. Definitely a tearjerker and had me so hooked
July 5, 2026
Collins and Johnnie were destined to be together since the beginning they met! They go through so much tho, especially Johnnie. My heart felt all her emotions. This was such a nice story about first loves and finding your way back to it. If you want to read a story that will make you sad but put you back together at the end this is it!
July 14, 2026
This didn’t feel like a debut at ALL!
July 25, 2026
This book ultimately wasn’t for me because of how it handled the topic of abortion. The story strongly frames abortion as something unforgivable, with the character believing she deserved a second miscarriage as punishment simply because she once considered having an abortion. While I understand this reflects the character’s guilt, it felt like the narrative reinforced that belief rather than challenged it. It left me uncomfortable and made it difficult to connect with the story.
Another issue I had was that the central conflict was dragged out for far too long. The mystery of why the FMC left ten years ago is built up throughout the entire book, only for the reveal to be that she was sexually assaulted. Given those circumstances, I found it frustrating that the misunderstanding lasted a decade. It felt like so much unnecessary time was spent apart, and the eventual reveal didn’t justify the amount of angst the story created. Instead of feeling heartbreaking, it just felt unnecessarily drawn out.
Another issue I had was that the central conflict was dragged out for far too long. The mystery of why the FMC left ten years ago is built up throughout the entire book, only for the reveal to be that she was sexually assaulted. Given those circumstances, I found it frustrating that the misunderstanding lasted a decade. It felt like so much unnecessary time was spent apart, and the eventual reveal didn’t justify the amount of angst the story created. Instead of feeling heartbreaking, it just felt unnecessarily drawn out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2026
I absolutely adored Johnnie and Collins together, they were such a sweet couple, and their relationship completely won me over. Collins patience, kindness, and unwavering support for Johnnie made my heart melt, and they quickly became one of my favorite fictional couples. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to receive an ARC copy of this book, and it was such a joy to read from beginning to end.🩵📚
July 13, 2026
I’m honestly not sure what I expected when I received this ARC, but whatever those expectations were, this book completely blew them out of the water.
Amber, I cannot believe this is your debut novel. Congratulations!!! This story was beautifully written, deeply emotional, and completely captivating from beginning to end. You absolutely knocked it out of the park.
Collins and Johnnie were everything. I will forever be a sucker for a dual-timeline romance, especially when the past is slowly revealed through tiny little crumbs along the way. Each chapter gives you another piece of their story, another clue about what happened, and another reason why I could not turn the pages fast enough.
I loved getting to experience Collins and Johnnie in both the past and present. Watching them fall in love while also trying to piece together how everything fell apart and what drove Johnnie to leave 10 years prior had me completely consumed. You know something devastating happened between them, but you don’t fully understand the depth of it until all the pieces begin clicking into place.
And when I tell you these two went through it, I mean they went THROUGH it. Together, separately, and in ways that absolutely shattered my heart. There was so much pain, regret, grief, and longing between them, but underneath it all, you could still feel how much they still loved each other. Their connection never truly disappeared, even after everything they endured.
This book had me in my feelings the entire time. I laughed, cried, swooned, and probably stared at the wall a few times trying to recover. I could not put it down. Every beautiful, heartbreaking piece of their story was worth the emotional damage.
Amber completely rips your heart out in a few chapters, but she also does such a beautiful job of slowly putting it back together. The healing never felt rushed or easy. Collins and Johnnie had to face their past, work through their pain, and decide whether their love was still worth fighting for.
And that epilogue?! Absolute perfection. It was everything I needed after the emotional roller coaster this book put me through.
I also loved Nan’s side story. What an absolute firecracker! She was spunky, hilarious, layered, and loved Collins and Johnnie fiercely. She added so much heart to the story, and I adored every moment.
We also get a little taste of the Combs twins, and I already know I am going to be completely obsessed with both of their stories. I CANNOT wait to see what Amber has planned for them next.
Amber, thank you for trusting me with Collins and Johnnie. I adored their story so much! I am so excited for what’s to come!
Amber, I cannot believe this is your debut novel. Congratulations!!! This story was beautifully written, deeply emotional, and completely captivating from beginning to end. You absolutely knocked it out of the park.
Collins and Johnnie were everything. I will forever be a sucker for a dual-timeline romance, especially when the past is slowly revealed through tiny little crumbs along the way. Each chapter gives you another piece of their story, another clue about what happened, and another reason why I could not turn the pages fast enough.
I loved getting to experience Collins and Johnnie in both the past and present. Watching them fall in love while also trying to piece together how everything fell apart and what drove Johnnie to leave 10 years prior had me completely consumed. You know something devastating happened between them, but you don’t fully understand the depth of it until all the pieces begin clicking into place.
And when I tell you these two went through it, I mean they went THROUGH it. Together, separately, and in ways that absolutely shattered my heart. There was so much pain, regret, grief, and longing between them, but underneath it all, you could still feel how much they still loved each other. Their connection never truly disappeared, even after everything they endured.
This book had me in my feelings the entire time. I laughed, cried, swooned, and probably stared at the wall a few times trying to recover. I could not put it down. Every beautiful, heartbreaking piece of their story was worth the emotional damage.
Amber completely rips your heart out in a few chapters, but she also does such a beautiful job of slowly putting it back together. The healing never felt rushed or easy. Collins and Johnnie had to face their past, work through their pain, and decide whether their love was still worth fighting for.
And that epilogue?! Absolute perfection. It was everything I needed after the emotional roller coaster this book put me through.
I also loved Nan’s side story. What an absolute firecracker! She was spunky, hilarious, layered, and loved Collins and Johnnie fiercely. She added so much heart to the story, and I adored every moment.
We also get a little taste of the Combs twins, and I already know I am going to be completely obsessed with both of their stories. I CANNOT wait to see what Amber has planned for them next.
Amber, thank you for trusting me with Collins and Johnnie. I adored their story so much! I am so excited for what’s to come!
July 16, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ of 5 Stars
They say some summers stay with you forever, but Collins proves that the ones that haunt you are the ones your soul simply refuses to forget.
WOW!! Amber Elizabeth’s debut novel is officially out, and I am still completely stuck on this story after devouring it. If you are obsessed with emotional second-chance romances, dual timelines, and the kind of angst that beautifully breaks your heart before piecing it back together, then you need to add this to your TBR!
The story follows Johnnie, who moves to Laken, Ohio, in the summer of 2000 to live with her feisty grandmother, Nan. That quiet summer turns electric the second she meets the boy next door, Collins. What starts as late-night four-wheeler rides quickly turns into a deep, soulmate-level love that feels entirely infinite… until everything shatters and Johnnie runs away in the middle of the night with zero explanation. Ten years later, a heartbreaking loss forces her back to Laken to face the ghosts she spent a decade trying to outrun. The catch... being back means facing the secrets she buried and the boy, now a man, whose heart she left in pieces. Now, they both have to decide whether they are brave enough to face the truth about why she ran, and whether a love that survived ten years of silence can actually be rebuilt.
What makes this book work so well is how effortlessly Amber Elizabeth weaves the past and present timelines together. The summer of 2000 chapters feel like a total time machine… packed with nostalgic nods, burned mix CDs, and that raw, butterfly-inducing feeling of teenage first loves. But the present-day reunion is where the real emotional weight lies. This is not a quick-fix patch-up; it is a raw, messy, and deeply realistic look at grief, trauma, and learning to trust again. Collins is the absolute blueprint of a green-flag hero; he is patient, he is incredibly tender, and he is fiercely supportive. And watching them slowly navigate their shared history and unhealed wounds is incredibly powerful.
This is an absolutely stunning, heartfelt debut about forgiveness, found family, and the kind of rare connection that refuses to fade, no matter how much time or distance tries to stand in the way
A massive thank you to Amber Elizabeth and @theauthor.agency for my ARC! All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own
They say some summers stay with you forever, but Collins proves that the ones that haunt you are the ones your soul simply refuses to forget.
WOW!! Amber Elizabeth’s debut novel is officially out, and I am still completely stuck on this story after devouring it. If you are obsessed with emotional second-chance romances, dual timelines, and the kind of angst that beautifully breaks your heart before piecing it back together, then you need to add this to your TBR!
The story follows Johnnie, who moves to Laken, Ohio, in the summer of 2000 to live with her feisty grandmother, Nan. That quiet summer turns electric the second she meets the boy next door, Collins. What starts as late-night four-wheeler rides quickly turns into a deep, soulmate-level love that feels entirely infinite… until everything shatters and Johnnie runs away in the middle of the night with zero explanation. Ten years later, a heartbreaking loss forces her back to Laken to face the ghosts she spent a decade trying to outrun. The catch... being back means facing the secrets she buried and the boy, now a man, whose heart she left in pieces. Now, they both have to decide whether they are brave enough to face the truth about why she ran, and whether a love that survived ten years of silence can actually be rebuilt.
What makes this book work so well is how effortlessly Amber Elizabeth weaves the past and present timelines together. The summer of 2000 chapters feel like a total time machine… packed with nostalgic nods, burned mix CDs, and that raw, butterfly-inducing feeling of teenage first loves. But the present-day reunion is where the real emotional weight lies. This is not a quick-fix patch-up; it is a raw, messy, and deeply realistic look at grief, trauma, and learning to trust again. Collins is the absolute blueprint of a green-flag hero; he is patient, he is incredibly tender, and he is fiercely supportive. And watching them slowly navigate their shared history and unhealed wounds is incredibly powerful.
This is an absolutely stunning, heartfelt debut about forgiveness, found family, and the kind of rare connection that refuses to fade, no matter how much time or distance tries to stand in the way
A massive thank you to Amber Elizabeth and @theauthor.agency for my ARC! All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own
Review of advance copy received from Author
What can I say? Johnnie and Collins*swoon* Let's start from the beginning. The dual POV makes the story so much richer and warmer and making you fall in love with the FMC and MMC with each chapter. Summer Love taking me back to growing up watching "Grease" and scenes when Sandy and Danny spent together. Pulling you more and more into the lives of Johnnie and Collins. Johnnie, sweet and cute country girl sprinkled in with a bit of spunk. Collins, strong, protective and kind.
In the midst of the summer of love and dual POV, Amber's Collins takes you on an emotional roller coaster of ups and downs. Amber Elizabeth capture the tragedy and angst so real that you are pulled into the lives of Collins and Johnnie. As a Twihard for life, not since Edward and Bella's love story across a trilogy has a love pulled me so deeply that it consumed my mind and my heart. I felt each of Collins and Johnnies hurt. What Stephanie Meyers did with us in three books, Amber did in Collins. The loss. The reunion. The rekindling of love. Johnnie and Collins will live in my heart forever.
Thank you, Amber Elizabeth for giving us Collins. This was my first experience as an ARC reader and it has been a wonderful experience that I will always treasure. I will be starting my SECOND reading this weekend. I am excited and am anticipating your next Comb's brother's story.
If you love second chances romances, dual POV and flashbacks, young sweet love, then Collins is the book for you. You will not be disappointed. In fact, everyone should read Collins. It's more than a love story. It's the story of a young woman's journey through love, hurt, tragedy and healing.
🩵soulmates
💙found family
🩵close proximity
💙second chance
🩵secret tattoo
💙trauma/healing
🩵summer love
💙angst/swoony
In the midst of the summer of love and dual POV, Amber's Collins takes you on an emotional roller coaster of ups and downs. Amber Elizabeth capture the tragedy and angst so real that you are pulled into the lives of Collins and Johnnie. As a Twihard for life, not since Edward and Bella's love story across a trilogy has a love pulled me so deeply that it consumed my mind and my heart. I felt each of Collins and Johnnies hurt. What Stephanie Meyers did with us in three books, Amber did in Collins. The loss. The reunion. The rekindling of love. Johnnie and Collins will live in my heart forever.
Thank you, Amber Elizabeth for giving us Collins. This was my first experience as an ARC reader and it has been a wonderful experience that I will always treasure. I will be starting my SECOND reading this weekend. I am excited and am anticipating your next Comb's brother's story.
If you love second chances romances, dual POV and flashbacks, young sweet love, then Collins is the book for you. You will not be disappointed. In fact, everyone should read Collins. It's more than a love story. It's the story of a young woman's journey through love, hurt, tragedy and healing.
🩵soulmates
💙found family
🩵close proximity
💙second chance
🩵secret tattoo
💙trauma/healing
🩵summer love
💙angst/swoony
Review of advance copy received from Author
WOW! WOW! WOW!
Collins was not what I expected at all!! I went in blindly and I was not disappointed!
I was pulled in immediately by the way the story unfolded between past and present. Every glimpse into their history made the present-day moments hit even harder, and instead of feeling like flashbacks, it felt like I was slowly uncovering pieces of their hearts.
This is the kind of second-chance romance that hurts before it heals. The longing, the missed opportunities, the quiet hope that never truly disappears… every emotion landed exactly where it was supposed to.
I adored this cast. The romance completely stole my heart, but the side characters made the town feel alive. They brought so much warmth, humor, and heart that I wanted to stay with them long after the story ended.
Collins is such a sweet, caring, soft MMC and truly loves Johnnie! They are complete soulmates and you fell it from the beginning when they first meet.
Amber Elizabeth has such an effortless writing style, especially for a debut. The emotions never felt forced…they simply unfolded naturally, making every happy moment sweeter and every heartbreaking one impossible to ignore.
If you’re looking for:
🤍 Small-town charm
🤍 Childhood friends/second chance
🤍 Dual timelines
🤍 Found family
🤍 Healing after heartbreak
🤍 A hero who never truly let go
…this belongs on your TBR.
This wasn’t just another romance for me. It reminded me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. I laughed, my heart broke, I smiled through tears, and by the end I wasn’t ready to say goodbye.
I can’t wait to see what Amber Elizabeth writes next because this debut completely exceeded every expectation I had.
I’m eager for the next brother?! Maybe???
Thanks to the author and The Author Agency for this incredible ARC! This is my honest opinion.
July 22, 2026
Some books are about falling in love. Others are about what happens when love is interrupted by the incredibly difficult and painful things life throws at you. Collins is a story about both.
Johnny's return to Laken brings her face to face with the one person she never truly moved on from. Ten years earlier, one summer changed the entire direction of her life when she met Collins and experienced a love that felt impossible to forget. But that summer also ended in heartbreak, unanswered questions, and a goodbye that neither of them was prepared for.
What makes this story so emotional is that Johnny isn't just returning to a place, she is returning to a part of herself she has spent years trying to bury. She has carried grief, pain, and memories that have shaped who she became, and watching her slowly confront the past was both heartbreaking and powerful.
Collins and Johnny's connection was one of my favorite parts of this book because it felt rooted in something deeper than attraction. It was about knowing someone, loving someone, and still feeling that pull even after years apart. Their story explores what happens when two people are given the chance to face the things that tore them apart and decide what comes next.
This book handles some incredibly heavy topics, including trauma, loss, and healing, but at its core, it is a story about survival and finding your way back to yourself. Johnny's journey is not an easy one, but it is honest, emotional, and beautifully written.
If you enjoy second chance romances with deep emotional layers, small town settings, first loves that leave a lasting impact, and characters who have real battles to overcome, Collins is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading.
Johnny and Collins' story is heartbreaking, beautiful, and unforgettable.
**Thank you so much to the Author Agency for this ARC**
Johnny's return to Laken brings her face to face with the one person she never truly moved on from. Ten years earlier, one summer changed the entire direction of her life when she met Collins and experienced a love that felt impossible to forget. But that summer also ended in heartbreak, unanswered questions, and a goodbye that neither of them was prepared for.
What makes this story so emotional is that Johnny isn't just returning to a place, she is returning to a part of herself she has spent years trying to bury. She has carried grief, pain, and memories that have shaped who she became, and watching her slowly confront the past was both heartbreaking and powerful.
Collins and Johnny's connection was one of my favorite parts of this book because it felt rooted in something deeper than attraction. It was about knowing someone, loving someone, and still feeling that pull even after years apart. Their story explores what happens when two people are given the chance to face the things that tore them apart and decide what comes next.
This book handles some incredibly heavy topics, including trauma, loss, and healing, but at its core, it is a story about survival and finding your way back to yourself. Johnny's journey is not an easy one, but it is honest, emotional, and beautifully written.
If you enjoy second chance romances with deep emotional layers, small town settings, first loves that leave a lasting impact, and characters who have real battles to overcome, Collins is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading.
Johnny and Collins' story is heartbreaking, beautiful, and unforgettable.
**Thank you so much to the Author Agency for this ARC**
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ Collins Review ✨
ARC Reader
How do you even put a book like this into words?
From the very first chapter, I was completely captivated. The dual POVs, the way the story effortlessly flowed between the past and the present, the shared history… it was absolutely stunning. Every transition felt so natural that it didn’t feel like I was reading flashbacks—it felt like I was living the memories right alongside them.
I fell in love with these characters almost instantly. Some stole my heart from page one, while others had me questioning everything. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
This book put me through every single emotion. I was laughing, anxious, frustrated, heartbroken, hopeful, completely shocked, and by the end… my heart was overflowing in the best possible way.
What I will say is this: this story felt real. Not “book real” where everything falls perfectly into place, but the kind of real that makes you believe these people actually exist. If someone told me this was based on their own life, I wouldn’t question it for a second. That’s how authentic, raw, and beautifully written it is.
This isn’t just a love story. It’s about timing, growth, healing, heartbreak, hope, and the kind of love that leaves fingerprints on your soul long after you’ve turned the last page.
By the end, I didn’t just love this story—I wanted to live inside it. I wanted one more chapter, one more conversation, one more moment with these characters because I wasn’t ready to let them go.
A story like this is why I love reading in the first place.
So please… don’t sleep on this one. Go in blind. Let yourself feel everything. And when you finish, come find me because I promise you’re going to need someone to talk to.
ARC Reader
How do you even put a book like this into words?
From the very first chapter, I was completely captivated. The dual POVs, the way the story effortlessly flowed between the past and the present, the shared history… it was absolutely stunning. Every transition felt so natural that it didn’t feel like I was reading flashbacks—it felt like I was living the memories right alongside them.
I fell in love with these characters almost instantly. Some stole my heart from page one, while others had me questioning everything. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
This book put me through every single emotion. I was laughing, anxious, frustrated, heartbroken, hopeful, completely shocked, and by the end… my heart was overflowing in the best possible way.
What I will say is this: this story felt real. Not “book real” where everything falls perfectly into place, but the kind of real that makes you believe these people actually exist. If someone told me this was based on their own life, I wouldn’t question it for a second. That’s how authentic, raw, and beautifully written it is.
This isn’t just a love story. It’s about timing, growth, healing, heartbreak, hope, and the kind of love that leaves fingerprints on your soul long after you’ve turned the last page.
By the end, I didn’t just love this story—I wanted to live inside it. I wanted one more chapter, one more conversation, one more moment with these characters because I wasn’t ready to let them go.
A story like this is why I love reading in the first place.
So please… don’t sleep on this one. Go in blind. Let yourself feel everything. And when you finish, come find me because I promise you’re going to need someone to talk to.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Collins
Amber Elizabeth
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (6 star review for me)
“Some summers stay with you forever. Others haunt you. Because souls don’t forget.”
I have felt a pull to read Collins from the moment I first read the book blurb.
I had no plans to read for seven hours straight to finish just before the sun came up the next morning. Did I stay awake for over 24 hours reading Collins? Yes, I did, and my book hangover was absolutely worth the exhaustion. Once I stepped into their world, walking away from Johnnie and Collins was not an option.
I had to know why she left and why it took her so long to return. I had to know why she would walk away from her soulmate and why he did not go after her.
I loved the way the story was written with the past and present timelines. I loved Johnnie and Collins and their love for each other. I loved uncovering the secrets of the past and grieving with them. I loved Johnnie’s strength and courage to face the ghost of her past. I loved Collins for the boy he was and the man he grew into.
In the end, I did not want to leave these characters and their story. Collins is now on my yearly re-read list.
Collins is for readers who want to sink into a story and feel it breathe love and grief into their heart. It's for readers who ache for the characters and long for answers. Collins is for readers who love a story that will break their heart and then put it back together one tiny piece at a time. Collins is a story of young love, hard choices, grief, healing, and coming home.
I received an ARC of Collins, and this is my honest voluntary review.
Amber Elizabeth
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (6 star review for me)
“Some summers stay with you forever. Others haunt you. Because souls don’t forget.”
I have felt a pull to read Collins from the moment I first read the book blurb.
I had no plans to read for seven hours straight to finish just before the sun came up the next morning. Did I stay awake for over 24 hours reading Collins? Yes, I did, and my book hangover was absolutely worth the exhaustion. Once I stepped into their world, walking away from Johnnie and Collins was not an option.
I had to know why she left and why it took her so long to return. I had to know why she would walk away from her soulmate and why he did not go after her.
I loved the way the story was written with the past and present timelines. I loved Johnnie and Collins and their love for each other. I loved uncovering the secrets of the past and grieving with them. I loved Johnnie’s strength and courage to face the ghost of her past. I loved Collins for the boy he was and the man he grew into.
In the end, I did not want to leave these characters and their story. Collins is now on my yearly re-read list.
Collins is for readers who want to sink into a story and feel it breathe love and grief into their heart. It's for readers who ache for the characters and long for answers. Collins is for readers who love a story that will break their heart and then put it back together one tiny piece at a time. Collins is a story of young love, hard choices, grief, healing, and coming home.
I received an ARC of Collins, and this is my honest voluntary review.
Review of advance copy
An amazing debut novel. It's beautifully written and the characters were lovely. I liked that this was a childhood friends/second chance small town romance. The emotions and depth of the narrative was done well. It builds up gradually, spreading out the storyline and hitting all the pivotal moments just right. This is one of those kinds of reads that comes across as relatable or even believable because it details a kind of romance with struggles and life situations that could happen. I feel like the writing really hit the spot on these kind of things and made this one a great story. One other thing that I really liked was that everything in this felt natural, not forced. Loved how the words just flowed effortlessly from one page to the next. It is a captivating story and a must read. This is the perfect book for those of that like small town romance with a second chance, first love, found family, trauma/healing, angst, and soulmates. Thanks to the author and the author agency for a copy of this. All thoughts are my own and freely expressed.
Favorite quote:
"When I think about how I love you, Collins? It feels absolutely terrifying, but it makes me feel alive. I think that's the only kind of love worth having."
Favorite quote:
"When I think about how I love you, Collins? It feels absolutely terrifying, but it makes me feel alive. I think that's the only kind of love worth having."
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨Arc review✨
5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2🌶️🌶️
That fact that I finished this in less than 24 hours speaks volumes on how hooked I became reading Johnnie and Collins' story. I was so emotionally invested, I legit couldn't put it down. The past timeline chapters were my favorite and so well written, I felt like I was being transported back in time. Bring on the vans, crossbody bags, and burned CD's pleaseee.
Johnnie and Collins meet during the summer of 2000 and their connection is instant. Their chemistry is so sweet and heartfelt, Collins stole my heart with how caring and understanding he was. Can we just take a moment for Nan please? Literally my favorite character in the story, and oh how my heart tugged at her relationship with Johnnie.
Do you need to read this book? YES you do! Be prepared to go through a range of emotions - I laughed, cried, got frustrated, literally was all up in my feelings. I'm hoping we get a book 2 with one of the other Combs brothers.
Thank you so much Amber Elizabeth and the Author Agency for the advance reader copy in exchance for my honest review!
💙Dual POV
💙Dual Timelines
💙Soulmates
💙Small town
💙Found family
💙Second chance
💙Trauma/Healing
5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2🌶️🌶️
That fact that I finished this in less than 24 hours speaks volumes on how hooked I became reading Johnnie and Collins' story. I was so emotionally invested, I legit couldn't put it down. The past timeline chapters were my favorite and so well written, I felt like I was being transported back in time. Bring on the vans, crossbody bags, and burned CD's pleaseee.
Johnnie and Collins meet during the summer of 2000 and their connection is instant. Their chemistry is so sweet and heartfelt, Collins stole my heart with how caring and understanding he was. Can we just take a moment for Nan please? Literally my favorite character in the story, and oh how my heart tugged at her relationship with Johnnie.
Do you need to read this book? YES you do! Be prepared to go through a range of emotions - I laughed, cried, got frustrated, literally was all up in my feelings. I'm hoping we get a book 2 with one of the other Combs brothers.
Thank you so much Amber Elizabeth and the Author Agency for the advance reader copy in exchance for my honest review!
💙Dual POV
💙Dual Timelines
💙Soulmates
💙Small town
💙Found family
💙Second chance
💙Trauma/Healing
July 11, 2026
📚ARC Review 📚
📖Collins- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Like my soul recognizes hers. Just like Johnnie said, all those years ago—she was right. My soul already knew hers. And hers knew mine. Because souls don’t forget. Que Sera Sera.”
Y’all I don’t know what Amber put in this but I ate it up, like devoured it in less than 24 hours. Talk about an amazing summer read! All the 90’s girl vibes, the small town, the emotions/feels, and the walking green flag that is Collins Combs, it was a perfect debut novel.
I loved the now and then storyline, falling in love with Collins and Johnnie while they’re falling in love, but also trying to figure out what happened kept me so invested.
My heart broke for both Johnnie and Collins, but talk about a support system. Between the rest of the Combs brothers, Bea, and of course Nan it was the best little family 🥹 I naturally have a soft spot for feisty grandmas, but Nan reminded me so much of my own Gran and that made me love this book even more!
I cannot wait to get the rest of the Comb brothers’ stories and am so excited for when we can return to Laken!
🛻Second Chance
🐬Summer Love
🛻Soul Mates/First Love
🐬Trauma/Healing
🛻Small Town
🐬Found Family
📖Collins- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Like my soul recognizes hers. Just like Johnnie said, all those years ago—she was right. My soul already knew hers. And hers knew mine. Because souls don’t forget. Que Sera Sera.”
Y’all I don’t know what Amber put in this but I ate it up, like devoured it in less than 24 hours. Talk about an amazing summer read! All the 90’s girl vibes, the small town, the emotions/feels, and the walking green flag that is Collins Combs, it was a perfect debut novel.
I loved the now and then storyline, falling in love with Collins and Johnnie while they’re falling in love, but also trying to figure out what happened kept me so invested.
My heart broke for both Johnnie and Collins, but talk about a support system. Between the rest of the Combs brothers, Bea, and of course Nan it was the best little family 🥹 I naturally have a soft spot for feisty grandmas, but Nan reminded me so much of my own Gran and that made me love this book even more!
I cannot wait to get the rest of the Comb brothers’ stories and am so excited for when we can return to Laken!
🛻Second Chance
🐬Summer Love
🛻Soul Mates/First Love
🐬Trauma/Healing
🛻Small Town
🐬Found Family
July 13, 2026
4.5****
This is a heartwarming debut novel. The characters are charming, engaging and endearing. The writing is heartfelt and tugs at your emotions. You celebrate their successes and cry at their losses. The FMC and MMC are strong and genuine. Their journey contains grief, loss, secrets, finding truth, and brokenness. The supporting characters also add more depth and dimension to the storyline. The main characters experienced significant character growth.
A high school summer love story that derailed as traumatic events occurred. Johnnie left Collins' heart in pieces and he cannot outrun the memories of their perfect summer together. Johnnie and Collins were first loves. Can Johnnie face the demons she buried and find redemption and be given a second chance that she so desperately deserves?
I enjoyed this writing and story and really look forward to the next book in the series.
Favorite Quotes:
"When I think about how I love you, Collins? It feels absolutely terrifying, but it makes me feel alive. I think that's the only kind of love worth having."
"I think that my soul already knows yours, yours knows mine. Souls don't forget."
This is a heartwarming debut novel. The characters are charming, engaging and endearing. The writing is heartfelt and tugs at your emotions. You celebrate their successes and cry at their losses. The FMC and MMC are strong and genuine. Their journey contains grief, loss, secrets, finding truth, and brokenness. The supporting characters also add more depth and dimension to the storyline. The main characters experienced significant character growth.
A high school summer love story that derailed as traumatic events occurred. Johnnie left Collins' heart in pieces and he cannot outrun the memories of their perfect summer together. Johnnie and Collins were first loves. Can Johnnie face the demons she buried and find redemption and be given a second chance that she so desperately deserves?
I enjoyed this writing and story and really look forward to the next book in the series.
Favorite Quotes:
"When I think about how I love you, Collins? It feels absolutely terrifying, but it makes me feel alive. I think that's the only kind of love worth having."
"I think that my soul already knows yours, yours knows mine. Souls don't forget."
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