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The Belacourts #1
The Ex-Best Thing
She’s hiding from scandal. He’s hiding from her. And this small town isn’t big enough for both of their secrets.
Benny Rhodes is perfectly happy with his quiet, small-town life in Bodega Bay. No paparazzi, no screaming fans—just his music, his surfboard, and his well-earned reputation as the guy who always brings the best muffins to town meetings. Most importantly, no one here cares that he used to be a teenage heartthrob. And no one knows that he’s secretly been ghostwriting hit songs for his ex, pop sensation Bree Belacourt.
Bree has built a career out of catchy, uplifting womens’ empowerment anthems, but her latest song—a scathing diss track—might be too good. Now, thanks to her label’s relentless marketing team, it’s set to drop any day, and when it does? The internet is going to explode. Desperate to dodge the fallout, she ditches New York for a sleepy beach town—only to accidentally break into the wrong house and come face-to-face with the guy who disappeared from her life without a goodbye.
When Bree needs to write a new song to fix the mess she made, she joins forces with the only person who’s ever really understood her, completely unaware that she’s been singing his words for years. It’s just like old times again, but the longer she stays, the harder it is for Benny to keep his secret, and the harder it is for Bree to ignore the fact that everything she sings still sounds like him.
He needs her out of the house next door before she unravels his entire life. Because neither of them can bear to let history repeat itself.
Benny Rhodes is perfectly happy with his quiet, small-town life in Bodega Bay. No paparazzi, no screaming fans—just his music, his surfboard, and his well-earned reputation as the guy who always brings the best muffins to town meetings. Most importantly, no one here cares that he used to be a teenage heartthrob. And no one knows that he’s secretly been ghostwriting hit songs for his ex, pop sensation Bree Belacourt.
Bree has built a career out of catchy, uplifting womens’ empowerment anthems, but her latest song—a scathing diss track—might be too good. Now, thanks to her label’s relentless marketing team, it’s set to drop any day, and when it does? The internet is going to explode. Desperate to dodge the fallout, she ditches New York for a sleepy beach town—only to accidentally break into the wrong house and come face-to-face with the guy who disappeared from her life without a goodbye.
When Bree needs to write a new song to fix the mess she made, she joins forces with the only person who’s ever really understood her, completely unaware that she’s been singing his words for years. It’s just like old times again, but the longer she stays, the harder it is for Benny to keep his secret, and the harder it is for Bree to ignore the fact that everything she sings still sounds like him.
He needs her out of the house next door before she unravels his entire life. Because neither of them can bear to let history repeat itself.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
July 1, 2026
Read it!!!! Seriously! I loved it and want everyone to pick it up so we can all talk about it together. And swoon over these two characters, and their adorableness and chemistry, together! It's the perfect time to pick it up because it's the first book of a brand new series by this author. You'll read it and be hooked on these characters and want to know what happens in the rest of The Belacourts' stories! Especially the one that the author has set up for the next book!!!! *Squeal* Seriously, I can't wait for it!!!
Bree Belacourt is a famous singer/performer and she's hiding out. Away from everyone because she made a big mistake and where she's in the public eye with her career and with her family's reality tv show, she's needing to lay low for a while. The opening scene and re-meeting of Benny Rhodes, had me giggling so much! Oh, poor Bree! But it definitely breaks the ice on seeing Benny again after many years! Best relationship ice-breaker moment! Hahaha! And if you think after several years that there aren't going to be sparks flying...that's wrong! Soooo many sparks were flying between these two. The attraction and chemistry, and most especially history, are still very strongly there! And I loved it all!!!
Add in the family dynamics, mostly Benny's for the beginning of the book and you're going to be loving these secondary characters! Especially Benny's grandma! I just loved her! She's a hoot and so good at saying it like it is. And her first meeting of Bree cracked me up too! *I'm giggling right now thinking about it* I love when books make me laugh out loud and just create a great emotional connection between the characters. Not just the main characters but the secondary ones as well. And this book does that so very well. Kasey Stockton is a fabulous author, especially when it comes to creating characters and really fleshing out everything abou them, as well as the dynamics with all of the different relationships in a book. And she has done it again with this book!!! I was completely hooked and invested with it all.
Bree and Benny have some secrets and I loved watching those secrets come out and be discovered. *Happy Sigh* And I especially loved (and laughed over) Bree sneaking around town in disguise and trying to not be found out for where she's hiding. A+ for the creativeness Bree (and to the author)! I loved the community and friendships in this town of Bodega Bay! You're going to love them as well. It gave the book a sweet homey feel, and Bree definitely needs some people in her corner and helping comfort and cheer her on. I loved the ending and seeing that even more so!
When you read the book, you're going to love it, especially the ending!!! It was wonderful!
Content: Clean. Some sweet kisses. No language.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Bree Belacourt is a famous singer/performer and she's hiding out. Away from everyone because she made a big mistake and where she's in the public eye with her career and with her family's reality tv show, she's needing to lay low for a while. The opening scene and re-meeting of Benny Rhodes, had me giggling so much! Oh, poor Bree! But it definitely breaks the ice on seeing Benny again after many years! Best relationship ice-breaker moment! Hahaha! And if you think after several years that there aren't going to be sparks flying...that's wrong! Soooo many sparks were flying between these two. The attraction and chemistry, and most especially history, are still very strongly there! And I loved it all!!!
Add in the family dynamics, mostly Benny's for the beginning of the book and you're going to be loving these secondary characters! Especially Benny's grandma! I just loved her! She's a hoot and so good at saying it like it is. And her first meeting of Bree cracked me up too! *I'm giggling right now thinking about it* I love when books make me laugh out loud and just create a great emotional connection between the characters. Not just the main characters but the secondary ones as well. And this book does that so very well. Kasey Stockton is a fabulous author, especially when it comes to creating characters and really fleshing out everything abou them, as well as the dynamics with all of the different relationships in a book. And she has done it again with this book!!! I was completely hooked and invested with it all.
Bree and Benny have some secrets and I loved watching those secrets come out and be discovered. *Happy Sigh* And I especially loved (and laughed over) Bree sneaking around town in disguise and trying to not be found out for where she's hiding. A+ for the creativeness Bree (and to the author)! I loved the community and friendships in this town of Bodega Bay! You're going to love them as well. It gave the book a sweet homey feel, and Bree definitely needs some people in her corner and helping comfort and cheer her on. I loved the ending and seeing that even more so!
When you read the book, you're going to love it, especially the ending!!! It was wonderful!
Content: Clean. Some sweet kisses. No language.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
July 17, 2026
AMAZING!
I loved this book so much! The second chance romance was perfect and the chemistry between Bree and Benny was SIZZLING! I loved all the celebrity and music industry stuff and didn’t want to put it down. I wasn’t sure how it was all going to work out in the end and loved how it all played out. I adore Kasey Stockton’s writing and she definitely delivered!
🔥Romance: Kisses
I loved this book so much! The second chance romance was perfect and the chemistry between Bree and Benny was SIZZLING! I loved all the celebrity and music industry stuff and didn’t want to put it down. I wasn’t sure how it was all going to work out in the end and loved how it all played out. I adore Kasey Stockton’s writing and she definitely delivered!
🔥Romance: Kisses
October 12, 2026
RIP to my Logan library card and thus access to Hoopla and all romcoms I read on it.
July 4, 2026
Bree needed a safe space that was for her alone; not her sisters, and not her brother and his adorable new family’s space. Fleeing the public eye for the one place where that level of safety was offered to her years earlier, Bree runs into a snag her plan to final complete anonymity…a snag that is the solid manly form of her first love, her ex-best boyfriend…and quite possibly the one person who can get her through this mess.
—
We met Bree Belacourt as she left her brother’s house to leap into the country music sphere…now a few years later, a crash and bomb in the music area having taken place…a friendship that was betrayed her, and a boyfriend who cheated and left…Bree decides to leave for some space. And heads right into the house next door to her first love, her ex, Benny.
Here comes chaos.
-
I absolutely love the way this story unfolds. A smash poolside hit |
—
We met Bree Belacourt as she left her brother’s house to leap into the country music sphere…now a few years later, a crash and bomb in the music area having taken place…a friendship that was betrayed her, and a boyfriend who cheated and left…Bree decides to leave for some space. And heads right into the house next door to her first love, her ex, Benny.
Here comes chaos.
-
I absolutely love the way this story unfolds. A smash poolside hit |
August 14, 2026
Dumb premise. No chemistry
July 7, 2026
A wonderful, clean, interconnected contemporary romance!
4.25 stars
Kasey Stockton has been a favorite author of mine for years—I adore both her Regency and contemporary books—so I was incredibly excited to dive into The Ex-Best Thing. One of my favorite things about this book was how it is interconnected with a previous book of hers. It was so much fun catching up briefly with Noah and Cat from Beachy Keen!
This story follows Noah's sister, Bree Bellacourt, who gives off total Taylor Swift meets Kim Kardashian vibes. After making a massive mistake and realizing the people around her view her as a business rather than a person, Bree flees the spotlight. She heads to a small town her teenage first love once told her about, never expecting to run into the man himself: Ben (Benny) Rhodes. Their accidental reunion is absolutely hilarious! 🤣
The chemistry and ease between Benny and Bree are so natural. While Benny chose to leave the spotlight years ago, Bree is trapped in it by her music career and reality TV fame. Taking a month away puts everything into perspective for her.
I loved how fiercely protective Benny is, and how effortlessly they connect—even their music flows perfectly when they’re together. Also, Benny’s grandmother completely stole my heart; she has that classic grandma superpower of reading exactly what they are both feeling.
If you love second-chance romance, hidden identity, forced proximity, "he never stopped loving her," and sweet, clean, closed-door kisses, you will absolutely love this book!
4.25 stars
Kasey Stockton has been a favorite author of mine for years—I adore both her Regency and contemporary books—so I was incredibly excited to dive into The Ex-Best Thing. One of my favorite things about this book was how it is interconnected with a previous book of hers. It was so much fun catching up briefly with Noah and Cat from Beachy Keen!
This story follows Noah's sister, Bree Bellacourt, who gives off total Taylor Swift meets Kim Kardashian vibes. After making a massive mistake and realizing the people around her view her as a business rather than a person, Bree flees the spotlight. She heads to a small town her teenage first love once told her about, never expecting to run into the man himself: Ben (Benny) Rhodes. Their accidental reunion is absolutely hilarious! 🤣
The chemistry and ease between Benny and Bree are so natural. While Benny chose to leave the spotlight years ago, Bree is trapped in it by her music career and reality TV fame. Taking a month away puts everything into perspective for her.
I loved how fiercely protective Benny is, and how effortlessly they connect—even their music flows perfectly when they’re together. Also, Benny’s grandmother completely stole my heart; she has that classic grandma superpower of reading exactly what they are both feeling.
If you love second-chance romance, hidden identity, forced proximity, "he never stopped loving her," and sweet, clean, closed-door kisses, you will absolutely love this book!
July 15, 2026
What a cutie patootie story!! Bree was such a fun FMC, I love that we are getting more from the Belacourt family! Benny was so down bad for her from page one and I EAT THAT UP🙂↕️💋🤌🏻
I’m so intrigued and pumped for Zoey’s story next!!! Also the slight cliffhanger is interesting, I definitely have my theories!👀
I’m so intrigued and pumped for Zoey’s story next!!! Also the slight cliffhanger is interesting, I definitely have my theories!👀
July 1, 2026
THE EX-BEST Thing
(The Belacourts Book One)
by: Kasey Stockton
@authorkaseystockton
••I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
~She’s hiding from scandal. He’s hiding from her. And this small town isn’t big enough for both of their secrets…
-My friends, if you are in the looking for a second chance at a love story, may I suggest you read, THE EX-BEST Thing! This book is such a delight! The sparks of chemistry, the forced proximity, the humor and wit, small-town vibes, and an epic second chance-meet cute had my full attention! Goodness, I even loved the wonderful meddling Grandma who only sees and wants the best for those she loves despite past mistakes, fame, or anything else. More than that though, what I really loved about this story was watching a character’s clear determination and need to get away from the pressure, demands, and struggles in putting herself first, in getting time away to breathe, heal, and grow. Even with making mistakes, there is always room to something more, and letting go, in rising above, and choosing to forgive oneself. Watching her tackle, handle, and make something more of those mistakes took the willingness, faith, and courage. Having the support and well-intentions of others made such a significant difference as well. This book emphasizes the beauty and importance of finding those that love you with flaws and all, that are willing to stand by you whether through calm or hard matters, and help support needs like eating. The beautiful redemption that comes about was so satisfying. This is a wonderful story worth reading that now has me wanting to go eat some salt water taffy and go to the beach!🎶📚🙌🏻‼️
•Content: celebrity scandal of sorts, strained family relations, death of loved ones (off page; mentioned on page), media gossip/slander, paparazzi, redemption, feelings of inadequacy, failure, not measuring up, loss, grief, frustration), no language, no violence or danger, kisses only!
#theexbestthing
#thebelacourts
#authorkaseysrockton
#allaboutthebestreads
(The Belacourts Book One)
by: Kasey Stockton
@authorkaseystockton
••I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
~She’s hiding from scandal. He’s hiding from her. And this small town isn’t big enough for both of their secrets…
-My friends, if you are in the looking for a second chance at a love story, may I suggest you read, THE EX-BEST Thing! This book is such a delight! The sparks of chemistry, the forced proximity, the humor and wit, small-town vibes, and an epic second chance-meet cute had my full attention! Goodness, I even loved the wonderful meddling Grandma who only sees and wants the best for those she loves despite past mistakes, fame, or anything else. More than that though, what I really loved about this story was watching a character’s clear determination and need to get away from the pressure, demands, and struggles in putting herself first, in getting time away to breathe, heal, and grow. Even with making mistakes, there is always room to something more, and letting go, in rising above, and choosing to forgive oneself. Watching her tackle, handle, and make something more of those mistakes took the willingness, faith, and courage. Having the support and well-intentions of others made such a significant difference as well. This book emphasizes the beauty and importance of finding those that love you with flaws and all, that are willing to stand by you whether through calm or hard matters, and help support needs like eating. The beautiful redemption that comes about was so satisfying. This is a wonderful story worth reading that now has me wanting to go eat some salt water taffy and go to the beach!🎶📚🙌🏻‼️
•Content: celebrity scandal of sorts, strained family relations, death of loved ones (off page; mentioned on page), media gossip/slander, paparazzi, redemption, feelings of inadequacy, failure, not measuring up, loss, grief, frustration), no language, no violence or danger, kisses only!
#theexbestthing
#thebelacourts
#authorkaseysrockton
#allaboutthebestreads
Read
July 2, 2026If you’re in the mood for a gentle, summery second‑chance romance, The Ex Best Thing has just landed — and it’s full of coastal charm. Set against the breezy beauty of Bodega Bay, this story brings all the seaside vibes: soft sunsets, sandy walks, and that soothing small‑town feel.
One of the standout delights is the grandma character, who brings warmth, humour, and heart to every scene she’s in. She’s the kind of character who makes you smile the moment she appears on the page.
If you love:
- Beachy settings
- Second‑chance themes
- Heartfelt family moments
- A gentle, easy read for summer
…this new release might be the perfect addition to your July TBR.
One of the standout delights is the grandma character, who brings warmth, humour, and heart to every scene she’s in. She’s the kind of character who makes you smile the moment she appears on the page.
If you love:
- Beachy settings
- Second‑chance themes
- Heartfelt family moments
- A gentle, easy read for summer
…this new release might be the perfect addition to your July TBR.
July 11, 2026
Loved this one! Bree Bellacourt is basically like one of the Kardashian’s if they were a hit pop singer with a heart of gold then add in Benny her high school sweetheart who was a famous singer himself who decided that living life in the spotlight was not for him.
Now have them meet years later with unresolved feelings and forced proximity and then you have this amazing romcom with so much tension and 👌🏼Absolutely loved it! Cannot wait for the rest of the Bellacort family! It was so fun to visit Noah and Cat from Beachy Keen again as this is a spin off of Noah’s family. I would definitely recommend this one! It’s a great summer read! Now someone take me to Northern California because it’s too dang hot in AZ right now!
Now have them meet years later with unresolved feelings and forced proximity and then you have this amazing romcom with so much tension and 👌🏼Absolutely loved it! Cannot wait for the rest of the Bellacort family! It was so fun to visit Noah and Cat from Beachy Keen again as this is a spin off of Noah’s family. I would definitely recommend this one! It’s a great summer read! Now someone take me to Northern California because it’s too dang hot in AZ right now!
September 2, 2026
I love a good celebrity romance and this one definitely hits the mark! Second chances, hiding from the paparazzi, song writing, a lovable grandma, facing mistakes, and finding out what really matters. This was a sweet and swoony read with such beautiful reminders woven in.
TW: Loved one with a health scare
TW: Loved one with a health scare
July 16, 2026
Cute, sweet, second chance romance.
The perfect mood read.
The perfect mood read.
August 8, 2026
Fun story! Well written, creative and clean.
July 9, 2026
I just finished a Sunset Harbor reread so it was fun to see the Bellacourts again. This one was cute, I just felt it lost steam about halfway through and I had a hard time distinguishing between the two main characters POV — they just felt too much the same.
August 1, 2026
𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕍𝕚𝕓𝕖: Heartwarming, protective, and cozy. A celebrity-in-hiding romance filled with second chances, found family, and small-town charm.
𝕄𝕪 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
I had been looking forward to this one ever since it was announced last year, so when its release was pushed back, I was a little disappointed. Thankfully, it was absolutely worth the wait.
One thing I really appreciate about Kasey Stockton is how much thought she puts into her stories. Nothing ever feels rushed, and this book was no exception. It was sweet, heartfelt, and full of the kind of quiet emotional moments that make you smile.
I was especially excited to spend more time with the Belacourt sisters, and I loved that we got those glimpses without them overshadowing the main story. It felt like catching up with old friends, which made returning to this world even more enjoyable.
Ben and Bree were easy to root for, and I loved watching them reconnect. Their relationship unfolded at a comfortable pace, and some of their quieter moments together ended up being my favorite parts of the book. There was a gentle sweetness to their romance that fit the story perfectly.
Ben's family completely won me over. They brought so much warmth, humor, and support to the story, and they reminded me that some of the best romance novels are about more than just the couple. They're also about the people who become part of their lives.
One detail I especially appreciated was that not every broken relationship was neatly resolved. Sometimes reconciliation isn't possible, and I thought the story handled that realistically. While I would still love to see a little more justice or accountability for certain characters, I respected that the author didn't force every conflict into a tidy resolution.
And now I'm even more excited for Peter and Zoey's story. If this book is any indication, I can't wait to see where the series goes next.
Overall, this was a warm, comforting romance that delivered exactly what I was hoping for: lovable characters, heartfelt relationships, and plenty of reasons to keep coming back to this series.
𝕃𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝔽𝕠𝕣:
✨ A sweet, second-chance romance.
✨ Ben's protective and caring nature.
✨ The Belacourt sisters and catching up with previous characters.
ℂ𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥:
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: Kisses only.
𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗮𝗴𝗲: None.
ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕/𝕃𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕟 𝕚𝕗 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕃𝕚𝕜𝕖:
If you enjoy clean celebrity romances, second-chance love stories, protective heroes, supportive families, and cozy small-town settings, this is a lovely pick. It's especially enjoyable for readers who appreciate romances that balance heartfelt relationships with a strong sense of community and leave you excited to continue the series.
𝕄𝕪 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
I had been looking forward to this one ever since it was announced last year, so when its release was pushed back, I was a little disappointed. Thankfully, it was absolutely worth the wait.
One thing I really appreciate about Kasey Stockton is how much thought she puts into her stories. Nothing ever feels rushed, and this book was no exception. It was sweet, heartfelt, and full of the kind of quiet emotional moments that make you smile.
I was especially excited to spend more time with the Belacourt sisters, and I loved that we got those glimpses without them overshadowing the main story. It felt like catching up with old friends, which made returning to this world even more enjoyable.
Ben and Bree were easy to root for, and I loved watching them reconnect. Their relationship unfolded at a comfortable pace, and some of their quieter moments together ended up being my favorite parts of the book. There was a gentle sweetness to their romance that fit the story perfectly.
Ben's family completely won me over. They brought so much warmth, humor, and support to the story, and they reminded me that some of the best romance novels are about more than just the couple. They're also about the people who become part of their lives.
One detail I especially appreciated was that not every broken relationship was neatly resolved. Sometimes reconciliation isn't possible, and I thought the story handled that realistically. While I would still love to see a little more justice or accountability for certain characters, I respected that the author didn't force every conflict into a tidy resolution.
And now I'm even more excited for Peter and Zoey's story. If this book is any indication, I can't wait to see where the series goes next.
Overall, this was a warm, comforting romance that delivered exactly what I was hoping for: lovable characters, heartfelt relationships, and plenty of reasons to keep coming back to this series.
𝕃𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝔽𝕠𝕣:
✨ A sweet, second-chance romance.
✨ Ben's protective and caring nature.
✨ The Belacourt sisters and catching up with previous characters.
ℂ𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥:
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: Kisses only.
𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗮𝗴𝗲: None.
ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕/𝕃𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕟 𝕚𝕗 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕃𝕚𝕜𝕖:
If you enjoy clean celebrity romances, second-chance love stories, protective heroes, supportive families, and cozy small-town settings, this is a lovely pick. It's especially enjoyable for readers who appreciate romances that balance heartfelt relationships with a strong sense of community and leave you excited to continue the series.
July 6, 2026
Two celebrities in hiding, a small beach town hideaway, a chance at redemption, & second chance love. All the stars for The Ex-Best Thing! Kasey Stockton delivers the perfect celebrity beach read that kept me quickly turning the pages. Ever since reading Beachy Keen, I couldn’t wait to get Bree’s story. She’s a famous singer/songwriter who’s going into hiding after a disastrous mistake is about to hit the airwaves. The only place she can think of to go is Bodega Bay, the small, paradise sounding beach town her ex told her about. But, what happens when the guy she couldn’t forget is her next door neighbor for the next month?
I absolutely loved this story! Bree & Benny broke up mainly because they were going in separate directions. She’s a world famous pop star & he’s a famous songwriter, but he hates the spotlight while she thrives in it. I absolutely loved their funny remeet cute, the gorgeous location, & watching Bree & Benny’s rekindled friendship turn to more.
Despite Bree’s fame, she’s so relatable & I loved all her disguises & the lengths she goes to not be recognized. She reminded me a bit of Taylor Swift & I enjoyed seeing the drama filled music industry come to life. The sizzling attraction between her & Benny smolders on the page & I loved seeing them not only become friends again, but deciding if they can make their seemingly incompatible lives mesh. Benny’s a sweetheart who’s secretly writing hit songs under a pseudonym & I loved seeing him overcome fears. I also adored his grandma Nancy who’s feisty, an absolute hoot, & filled with great wisdom, as well as Benny’s cousin & friends.
The summer vibes of saltwater taffy, outdoor concerts, & the beach came alive in this story & was the perfect summer read! I also adored seeing Bree’s brother Noah & Cat again. Read their story & get an intro to the Belacourt family in Beachy Keen. But, you don’t have to read that book to appreciate this one. It’s easily read as a standalone & now I can’t wait to read the next book in the series! Highly recommend to sweet, no spice romance fans. I received an advanced copy from the author but also borrowed in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are completely my own & voluntarily provided.
I absolutely loved this story! Bree & Benny broke up mainly because they were going in separate directions. She’s a world famous pop star & he’s a famous songwriter, but he hates the spotlight while she thrives in it. I absolutely loved their funny remeet cute, the gorgeous location, & watching Bree & Benny’s rekindled friendship turn to more.
Despite Bree’s fame, she’s so relatable & I loved all her disguises & the lengths she goes to not be recognized. She reminded me a bit of Taylor Swift & I enjoyed seeing the drama filled music industry come to life. The sizzling attraction between her & Benny smolders on the page & I loved seeing them not only become friends again, but deciding if they can make their seemingly incompatible lives mesh. Benny’s a sweetheart who’s secretly writing hit songs under a pseudonym & I loved seeing him overcome fears. I also adored his grandma Nancy who’s feisty, an absolute hoot, & filled with great wisdom, as well as Benny’s cousin & friends.
The summer vibes of saltwater taffy, outdoor concerts, & the beach came alive in this story & was the perfect summer read! I also adored seeing Bree’s brother Noah & Cat again. Read their story & get an intro to the Belacourt family in Beachy Keen. But, you don’t have to read that book to appreciate this one. It’s easily read as a standalone & now I can’t wait to read the next book in the series! Highly recommend to sweet, no spice romance fans. I received an advanced copy from the author but also borrowed in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are completely my own & voluntarily provided.
September 30, 2026
‘Sixteen-year-old Benny was America’s boy next door. Now, he’s a literal man next door.’
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own, and a review was not required.
Former teen heartthrob Benny Rhodes has built a quiet life in a small Northern California beach town—far away from fame, heartbreak, and his ex-best friend, pop star Bree Belacourt. But when Bree unexpectedly shows up next door hiding from a scandal, old feelings, old secrets, and a whole lot of unfinished history come crashing back in with the tide.
Life is always brighter with a new Kasey Stockton book, and I absolutely LOOOVED this one.
My favorite trope—second chance romance—mixed with boy-next-door vibes, celebrity chaos, hilarious side characters, and an adorably spunky grandma? Honestly, does it get any better than that?
Benny and Bree have so much history, and watching them navigate old hurts, lingering feelings, and the possibility of starting over had me completely invested from beginning to end. Their chemistry is wonderful, the banter is so much fun, and the emotional moments land perfectly.
I also loved the small-town setting. Bodega Bay feels cozy, charming, and exactly like the kind of place you’d want to visit for a weekend and accidentally stay forever. And the supporting cast absolutely steals scenes whenever they appear.
This new series is one I will be eagerly anticipating with every release. We got a fun glimpse of the Belacourt family in Beachy Keen a few summers ago, and I am very ready for more of this family and all the adventures still to come.
If you love second-chance romance, beach-town charm, celebrity secrets, and heroes who quietly show up for the people they love, this is an absolute must-read.
Available NOW and linked in today’s stories!
Happy Reading📚
Content/Triggers: Dysfunctional family, anxiety, regret, romance—kisses only.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own, and a review was not required.
Former teen heartthrob Benny Rhodes has built a quiet life in a small Northern California beach town—far away from fame, heartbreak, and his ex-best friend, pop star Bree Belacourt. But when Bree unexpectedly shows up next door hiding from a scandal, old feelings, old secrets, and a whole lot of unfinished history come crashing back in with the tide.
Life is always brighter with a new Kasey Stockton book, and I absolutely LOOOVED this one.
My favorite trope—second chance romance—mixed with boy-next-door vibes, celebrity chaos, hilarious side characters, and an adorably spunky grandma? Honestly, does it get any better than that?
Benny and Bree have so much history, and watching them navigate old hurts, lingering feelings, and the possibility of starting over had me completely invested from beginning to end. Their chemistry is wonderful, the banter is so much fun, and the emotional moments land perfectly.
I also loved the small-town setting. Bodega Bay feels cozy, charming, and exactly like the kind of place you’d want to visit for a weekend and accidentally stay forever. And the supporting cast absolutely steals scenes whenever they appear.
This new series is one I will be eagerly anticipating with every release. We got a fun glimpse of the Belacourt family in Beachy Keen a few summers ago, and I am very ready for more of this family and all the adventures still to come.
If you love second-chance romance, beach-town charm, celebrity secrets, and heroes who quietly show up for the people they love, this is an absolute must-read.
Available NOW and linked in today’s stories!
Happy Reading📚
Content/Triggers: Dysfunctional family, anxiety, regret, romance—kisses only.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Two entertainers, both in hiding. He is hiding from her, and his former life of fame and no privacy. She is hiding from a bad decision, hoping things will blow over. Not even her family knows where she is. She is a mess and needs time alone. The problems begin when their paths cross in the funniest of ways.
HER: "No randos taking my picture. No guilt-trip text chains forcing me into attending events. No pasting on a fake smile for 30 whole days! And no facing my stupid mistakes."
HIM: "When I was 14, I thought I'd love everything that came along with my record deal, too. How was I supposed to know that the loneliest I could feel would be on stage surrounded by thousands of fans?"
He wants a quiet life, and her. How can he have both? Which does he want more? She wants sincerity in people, which doesn't come with her career. She gets that from him- but is it temporary? Which is more important?
Kasey writes the funnest, sweetest characters ever. You can't help but just fall in love with them because it really feels like you KNOW them and understand their feelings. And as is often the case, you have side characters that enhance the story and the enjoyment level- namely a sweet and spunky grandma.
If you like celebrity stories, second chances, redemption and understanding, friends to more, kind and caring characters, and just a really fun story- this will be right for you.
This book would make a fantastic movie. I cannot wait for the rest of the series, the teaser for the next book left me hanging and I hope for not too long. Read Beachy Keen first for an intro to the Belacourt Family, but you will love this one even without it. But, it is a great beach read.
HER: "No randos taking my picture. No guilt-trip text chains forcing me into attending events. No pasting on a fake smile for 30 whole days! And no facing my stupid mistakes."
HIM: "When I was 14, I thought I'd love everything that came along with my record deal, too. How was I supposed to know that the loneliest I could feel would be on stage surrounded by thousands of fans?"
He wants a quiet life, and her. How can he have both? Which does he want more? She wants sincerity in people, which doesn't come with her career. She gets that from him- but is it temporary? Which is more important?
Kasey writes the funnest, sweetest characters ever. You can't help but just fall in love with them because it really feels like you KNOW them and understand their feelings. And as is often the case, you have side characters that enhance the story and the enjoyment level- namely a sweet and spunky grandma.
If you like celebrity stories, second chances, redemption and understanding, friends to more, kind and caring characters, and just a really fun story- this will be right for you.
This book would make a fantastic movie. I cannot wait for the rest of the series, the teaser for the next book left me hanging and I hope for not too long. Read Beachy Keen first for an intro to the Belacourt Family, but you will love this one even without it. But, it is a great beach read.
August 18, 2026
I have been patiently waiting for more of the Belacourts and THE EX-BEST THING did not disappoint. Bree and Benny’s second chance at love was sweet, full of moments that made me laugh, and well worth the wait.
Bree and Benny have history. Their careers took different paths, and they haven’t had contact for years. I thoroughly enjoyed when they reconnected. Bree constantly had me laughing at her antics and Benny’s reactions to her antics had me smiling. The chemistry and attraction never weakened between them through the years, and I loved how naturally they picked up like they’d just seen each other yesterday - well, after a few awkward moments. Bree is sweet, caring, and strong for owning up to her mistakes. Benny is the nicest guy and does everything he can to protect her identity. I loved them together! THE EX-BEST THING was a wonderful second chance romance and a great read to wrap up summer!
Tropes: contemporary romance | small coastal town | second chance | celebrity in hiding | forced proximity | protective MMC | some secrets | supportive family
My favorite things:
Their reconnect meet cute
Bree sneaking around
Bree’s disguises
Benny’s protectiveness
Bree & Benny’s chemistry
He’s always feeding her
Benny’s grandma
The Birds
The Belacourt sisters
Bronco getaway
Benny’s cousin, Colby and his friend, Peter
My favorite quotes:
“All the reasons we shouldn’t be together are moot while I’m in his arms. I don’t know where this is going to lead, but I know I want it to be both of us against the world.”
“It’s dumb how some dreams come true, and they’re nothing like you expect them to be. Then others sneak up on you and you realize they are what you wanted all along, but you don’t know how to make them happen.”
Happy reading!
Bree and Benny have history. Their careers took different paths, and they haven’t had contact for years. I thoroughly enjoyed when they reconnected. Bree constantly had me laughing at her antics and Benny’s reactions to her antics had me smiling. The chemistry and attraction never weakened between them through the years, and I loved how naturally they picked up like they’d just seen each other yesterday - well, after a few awkward moments. Bree is sweet, caring, and strong for owning up to her mistakes. Benny is the nicest guy and does everything he can to protect her identity. I loved them together! THE EX-BEST THING was a wonderful second chance romance and a great read to wrap up summer!
Tropes: contemporary romance | small coastal town | second chance | celebrity in hiding | forced proximity | protective MMC | some secrets | supportive family
My favorite things:
Their reconnect meet cute
Bree sneaking around
Bree’s disguises
Benny’s protectiveness
Bree & Benny’s chemistry
He’s always feeding her
Benny’s grandma
The Birds
The Belacourt sisters
Bronco getaway
Benny’s cousin, Colby and his friend, Peter
My favorite quotes:
“All the reasons we shouldn’t be together are moot while I’m in his arms. I don’t know where this is going to lead, but I know I want it to be both of us against the world.”
“It’s dumb how some dreams come true, and they’re nothing like you expect them to be. Then others sneak up on you and you realize they are what you wanted all along, but you don’t know how to make them happen.”
Happy reading!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a fun story this one was! Bree is a mega superstar with a huge fan base and she's just made a decision and gone forward with something that might end her career. So what's the best thing to do in that situation? Run and hide. Where? The place her ex-boyfriend told her a long time ago his grandma lived. She did not expect him to be living there and right next door.
Bree's character is super sweet and down to earth, I really loved her heart more than anything. Benny, her ex, is one amazing guy as well. These two are clearly not over their long ago romance and the sparks are flying right from the start.
I haven't read a book in a long time that featured a superstar like Bree and I wasn't sure how much I was going to like it, but Kasey did such a great job keeping everyone relatable. This isn't an easy thing to do when you also need the characters, sweet Benny included, to be larger than life in some respects. But she finds a way to balance their fame and their nature into one easy to read package.
A character that needs a special call out from this book is Benny's grandma, Nancy. She appears frequently throughout the story and is the real hero of this one. Her health isn't all that great and so Benny is spending all his time worrying about her and wanting to be there for her. But she reminds him that he needs to live his life too. Not only that, but she's also the mother figure Bree doesn't really have.
A wonderfully fun, romantic, and enjoyable read that I would highly recommend to all my closed door contemporary romance fans!
Bree's character is super sweet and down to earth, I really loved her heart more than anything. Benny, her ex, is one amazing guy as well. These two are clearly not over their long ago romance and the sparks are flying right from the start.
I haven't read a book in a long time that featured a superstar like Bree and I wasn't sure how much I was going to like it, but Kasey did such a great job keeping everyone relatable. This isn't an easy thing to do when you also need the characters, sweet Benny included, to be larger than life in some respects. But she finds a way to balance their fame and their nature into one easy to read package.
A character that needs a special call out from this book is Benny's grandma, Nancy. She appears frequently throughout the story and is the real hero of this one. Her health isn't all that great and so Benny is spending all his time worrying about her and wanting to be there for her. But she reminds him that he needs to live his life too. Not only that, but she's also the mother figure Bree doesn't really have.
A wonderfully fun, romantic, and enjoyable read that I would highly recommend to all my closed door contemporary romance fans!
July 1, 2026
Their relationship goes way back before he moved away eventually leaving the music scene. He just couldn't take the anxiety it caused him to perform. Her family lives in the limelight and she is a favorite of the music world. So why is she running away to hide in a small town , Bodega Bay, CA that he told her was a safe place away from the world.
I loved when the incognito Bree Belacourt finally got to the small town she would hide out in, that she couldn't get into the house she had rented. Deciding to go in an opened back window she finds out quickly that she is not where she belongs and also that the man standing in front of her is her ex Benny Rhodes. She hasn't seen him since he left without a word. Last she knew he was living in Colorado.
Benny never lost his love for Bree but he just couldn't live in her world. He hadn't completely left the music scene since he still wrote music under a pen name. Bree has no idea that a large amount of the songs she sings have been written by Benny.
Benny and Bree are able to reconnect while she is in hiding but when the reason for her to have run away is finally revealed will Benny think horrible things about her? There's so much more to this fun story with the main characters possibly getting a second chance to be together.
The Belacourt family has more stories to come and there already is one about Noah Belacourt, Bree's brother who is married with children (Beachy Keen).
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
I loved when the incognito Bree Belacourt finally got to the small town she would hide out in, that she couldn't get into the house she had rented. Deciding to go in an opened back window she finds out quickly that she is not where she belongs and also that the man standing in front of her is her ex Benny Rhodes. She hasn't seen him since he left without a word. Last she knew he was living in Colorado.
Benny never lost his love for Bree but he just couldn't live in her world. He hadn't completely left the music scene since he still wrote music under a pen name. Bree has no idea that a large amount of the songs she sings have been written by Benny.
Benny and Bree are able to reconnect while she is in hiding but when the reason for her to have run away is finally revealed will Benny think horrible things about her? There's so much more to this fun story with the main characters possibly getting a second chance to be together.
The Belacourt family has more stories to come and there already is one about Noah Belacourt, Bree's brother who is married with children (Beachy Keen).
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
July 3, 2026
The Ex-Best Thing is so stinkin’ adorable!! I have been highly anticipating this book and series since falling in love with Noah Belacourt in Beachy Keen and meeting his sisters. Let me tell you, this book was worth the wait and I wish someone would make it into a movie!
Bree Belacourt is a famous pop star whose family is also widely in the spotlight. When a decision she made leaves her Topsy-turvy, she secretly runs away to the small town of Bodega Bay, a place her high school love always talked about. What she didn’t expect was to not only find said former sweetheart there but to be living right next door. Cue all the fabulous second chance and close proximity vibes here.
Benny is the best. He left his life of fame for privacy, though he has some secret connections still in play. When Bree shows up in his life once more, he has to decide if she’s worth losing some of his well-sought anonymity for. Their dynamic was super cute. I loved watching them find new footing together and how their relationship progressed.
Read this for:
*Pop star in hiding with another off the grid
*Fun Northern California setting
*Dual POV
*Second chance romance
*Benny’s grandma
*Kisses
*Celebrity romcom
*Birds
*Moments that will make you smile and laugh
I really loved this one. Kasey's been rocking second chance romances for me lately and I highly recommend checking this book out!
Bree Belacourt is a famous pop star whose family is also widely in the spotlight. When a decision she made leaves her Topsy-turvy, she secretly runs away to the small town of Bodega Bay, a place her high school love always talked about. What she didn’t expect was to not only find said former sweetheart there but to be living right next door. Cue all the fabulous second chance and close proximity vibes here.
Benny is the best. He left his life of fame for privacy, though he has some secret connections still in play. When Bree shows up in his life once more, he has to decide if she’s worth losing some of his well-sought anonymity for. Their dynamic was super cute. I loved watching them find new footing together and how their relationship progressed.
Read this for:
*Pop star in hiding with another off the grid
*Fun Northern California setting
*Dual POV
*Second chance romance
*Benny’s grandma
*Kisses
*Celebrity romcom
*Birds
*Moments that will make you smile and laugh
I really loved this one. Kasey's been rocking second chance romances for me lately and I highly recommend checking this book out!
July 5, 2026
Sweet, contemporary celebrity romance
Romance, sweet, contemporary; series but stand alone read
Bree and Ben/Benny’s story is a second chance sweet romance. Bree comes to this sleepy beach town based on Benny’s reminiscing when they were teens. Seeking privacy from her music career, famiky, and fans, it seems like the perfect spot. Not wanting anyone to know where she is so she can escape the fallout of a song that she tried to stop releasing after a music industry betrayal she’s hoping to retreat, and come to terms with the coming fallout.
Biggest surprise is she’s renting a house next door to her first love and first heartbreak.
Benny’s secret career writing music happened after he left Bree their music and the overwhelming anxiety he felt performing and being on. He escaped, but started back writing music and following Bree from a distance. Benny can’t stop helping and being in her sphere bringing her (albeit disguised) into his world and community including his family circle.
Lovely, sweet, contemporary romance that has all the moments. Told from alternating points of view, strong supporting characters, and fun music industry backstory with a small town setting it is a moving story of two honest hearts pulled apart and realizing their hearts were still connected and perfectly joined. More of a 4.5 for me as a reader. Can’t wait for the next novel in this series.
Romance, sweet, contemporary; series but stand alone read
Bree and Ben/Benny’s story is a second chance sweet romance. Bree comes to this sleepy beach town based on Benny’s reminiscing when they were teens. Seeking privacy from her music career, famiky, and fans, it seems like the perfect spot. Not wanting anyone to know where she is so she can escape the fallout of a song that she tried to stop releasing after a music industry betrayal she’s hoping to retreat, and come to terms with the coming fallout.
Biggest surprise is she’s renting a house next door to her first love and first heartbreak.
Benny’s secret career writing music happened after he left Bree their music and the overwhelming anxiety he felt performing and being on. He escaped, but started back writing music and following Bree from a distance. Benny can’t stop helping and being in her sphere bringing her (albeit disguised) into his world and community including his family circle.
Lovely, sweet, contemporary romance that has all the moments. Told from alternating points of view, strong supporting characters, and fun music industry backstory with a small town setting it is a moving story of two honest hearts pulled apart and realizing their hearts were still connected and perfectly joined. More of a 4.5 for me as a reader. Can’t wait for the next novel in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“His dark hair is brushed messily to the side, like he’s run his hands through it countless times, and there’s a resigned look on his stupid-handsome face. Why does he have to look so good all the dang time? Why can’t I have a break from wanting to frame his perfect cheekbones in my hands and gaze into the deep blue oceans that make up his eyes?”
If Kasey Stockton writes it, I will read it and love it! The Ex-Best Thing it is a second chance at love story about Bree and Benny. Bree is an entertainer and Benny is a former entertainer/songwriter. These two broke up years ago and now find themselves as next-door neighbors for the next month while Bree hides out after making a not-so-great decision. I mean, exes that are now next-door neighbors, who may or may not still have feelings for each other… What could go wrong?
I love Benny and Bree so much! They had great chemistry and worked so well together! Their second chance meet-cute had me rolling. I loved how sweet and protective Benny was of Bree despite things from past.
I also love me a meddling grandma and Nancy was the perfect one! I loved how quickly she accepted Bree for who she was despite her fame!
Favorite quotes:
“His leather jacket is the right kind of snug, his jeans fit flawlessly, and even his boots kick my heart rate up a notch. If I slick my hair into a high pony and find a poodle skirt, would he roleplay some Grease with me?”
“You’re a good person.” His words hit me in the gut. I’m so caught off guard, my breath catches. “You are. I don’t know who made you believe otherwise, but I’ve known you for a long time. Maybe I haven’t seen you in years, but that doesn’t mean I don’t know you, Bree.
“I’ve spent ten years quietly watching you from far away, Bree, and it’s never felt satisfying. It’s nothing like having you close, hearing your laugh, sharing my days with you. It was clear to me yesterday that if I had to choose between a quiet life and you, I’d choose you a hundred times over.”
If Kasey Stockton writes it, I will read it and love it! The Ex-Best Thing it is a second chance at love story about Bree and Benny. Bree is an entertainer and Benny is a former entertainer/songwriter. These two broke up years ago and now find themselves as next-door neighbors for the next month while Bree hides out after making a not-so-great decision. I mean, exes that are now next-door neighbors, who may or may not still have feelings for each other… What could go wrong?
I love Benny and Bree so much! They had great chemistry and worked so well together! Their second chance meet-cute had me rolling. I loved how sweet and protective Benny was of Bree despite things from past.
I also love me a meddling grandma and Nancy was the perfect one! I loved how quickly she accepted Bree for who she was despite her fame!
Favorite quotes:
“His leather jacket is the right kind of snug, his jeans fit flawlessly, and even his boots kick my heart rate up a notch. If I slick my hair into a high pony and find a poodle skirt, would he roleplay some Grease with me?”
“You’re a good person.” His words hit me in the gut. I’m so caught off guard, my breath catches. “You are. I don’t know who made you believe otherwise, but I’ve known you for a long time. Maybe I haven’t seen you in years, but that doesn’t mean I don’t know you, Bree.
“I’ve spent ten years quietly watching you from far away, Bree, and it’s never felt satisfying. It’s nothing like having you close, hearing your laugh, sharing my days with you. It was clear to me yesterday that if I had to choose between a quiet life and you, I’d choose you a hundred times over.”
July 2, 2026
“If we light a match, will we both go up in flames?”
This book is a second chance romance lover’s dream come true! Bree and Benny truly needed the time they spent apart to turn them into the people they are. They were so young when they were together and had so many outside forces influencing them. They needed to learn who they were without all of that.
I loved seeing Benny support Bree while she hid out. He gave her a chance to be herself while also protecting her identity. I really enjoyed seeing Bree learn to trust and put her faith in Benny while they fixed the problems she created.
I appreciated seeing both of their families show up for them individually and as a couple. Grandma Nancy and cousin Colby were such a great support as Bree navigated life in hiding. I loved seeing Bree’s relationship with her sisters as well.
The chemistry and tension in this story is phenomenal! I was rooting for Bree and Benny to figure things out from the minute she landed at his door. It’s refreshing to find stories that are able to keep the story interesting with that obvious attraction right from the start.
This second chance, celebrity(ies) in hiding, small town romance is full of kind and supporting characters, swoony, slow burn moments, and a very rewarding conclusion. I can’t wait for the rest of the Belacourts to find their HEAs!
This book is a second chance romance lover’s dream come true! Bree and Benny truly needed the time they spent apart to turn them into the people they are. They were so young when they were together and had so many outside forces influencing them. They needed to learn who they were without all of that.
I loved seeing Benny support Bree while she hid out. He gave her a chance to be herself while also protecting her identity. I really enjoyed seeing Bree learn to trust and put her faith in Benny while they fixed the problems she created.
I appreciated seeing both of their families show up for them individually and as a couple. Grandma Nancy and cousin Colby were such a great support as Bree navigated life in hiding. I loved seeing Bree’s relationship with her sisters as well.
The chemistry and tension in this story is phenomenal! I was rooting for Bree and Benny to figure things out from the minute she landed at his door. It’s refreshing to find stories that are able to keep the story interesting with that obvious attraction right from the start.
This second chance, celebrity(ies) in hiding, small town romance is full of kind and supporting characters, swoony, slow burn moments, and a very rewarding conclusion. I can’t wait for the rest of the Belacourts to find their HEAs!
July 8, 2026
What a sweet second-chance romance!
Benny and Bree’s story was so sweet, I absolutely loved watching them fall in love again!
This was such a fun continuation of the Belacourt family story that we first met with Noah and Cat in Beachy Keen in the Falling for Summer series! I loved getting to know Bree and the sisters more and follow Bree’s growth after she runs away to hide from a mistake.
Bree and Benny both have some things to work through in order to find their way back together and I loved their story and their growth.
Benny is so sweet and caring and I loved watching him care for both Bree and his grandma. Grandma Nancy was also fantastic!
There were so many sweet and funny moments in this book, I absolutely recommend it for fans of love stories, second-chance, and celebrity romance in a small town. The musical element, courtesy of Bree and Benny’s career, was also really fun to read about!
Kasey’s descriptions of the scenery made me feel like I was there! It sounds so picturesque and peaceful!
I am so excited to see where this series goes next!
Thank you so much to Kasey for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Benny and Bree’s story was so sweet, I absolutely loved watching them fall in love again!
This was such a fun continuation of the Belacourt family story that we first met with Noah and Cat in Beachy Keen in the Falling for Summer series! I loved getting to know Bree and the sisters more and follow Bree’s growth after she runs away to hide from a mistake.
Bree and Benny both have some things to work through in order to find their way back together and I loved their story and their growth.
Benny is so sweet and caring and I loved watching him care for both Bree and his grandma. Grandma Nancy was also fantastic!
There were so many sweet and funny moments in this book, I absolutely recommend it for fans of love stories, second-chance, and celebrity romance in a small town. The musical element, courtesy of Bree and Benny’s career, was also really fun to read about!
Kasey’s descriptions of the scenery made me feel like I was there! It sounds so picturesque and peaceful!
I am so excited to see where this series goes next!
Thank you so much to Kasey for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bree’s undercurrent of determination and need to get away drew me in from the first sentence. Escaping to a small coastal town and accidentally falling back into the life of Benny, her high school ex-boyfriend, was so good. Their first run-in with each other after ten years was perfection. I was laughing out loud while reading in the middle of the night.
Bree’s big heart and desire for something she didn’t quite understand at first was intriguing to watch unfold. We have a tendency to romanticize fame at times, myself included, and I love how this book shines a light on some truths hidden behind the veneer. I also loved Grandma Nancy and her fierce loyalty and feisty spirit.
This is a wonderful story about how we all make mistakes, but what really matters is how we handle those mistakes when they happen. It’s about finding someone who loves you, flaws and all, and is willing to stay by your side when things get hard.
If you're looking to escape to a small coastal town and fall in love with amazing characters, then you’ll enjoy The Ex-Best Thing. I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content: Mild innuendo, kissing only
Bree’s big heart and desire for something she didn’t quite understand at first was intriguing to watch unfold. We have a tendency to romanticize fame at times, myself included, and I love how this book shines a light on some truths hidden behind the veneer. I also loved Grandma Nancy and her fierce loyalty and feisty spirit.
This is a wonderful story about how we all make mistakes, but what really matters is how we handle those mistakes when they happen. It’s about finding someone who loves you, flaws and all, and is willing to stay by your side when things get hard.
If you're looking to escape to a small coastal town and fall in love with amazing characters, then you’ll enjoy The Ex-Best Thing. I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content: Mild innuendo, kissing only
July 5, 2026
Have you ever read a book and then wish you could read it all over again immediately? That is 100% how I felt after finishing The Ex-Best Thing.
This was so many fun things wrapped up into one- secret identities, celebrities, second chances, slow burn, found family- sigh. It was the perfect package. It hit all the fun notes of being a romcom, especially as Bree, hiding out after a potential career-ending disaster, stumbles into the wrong house, gets caught spying, dresses up in goofy wigs and fakes a concussion. The way that she is super wrapped up with Benny from the past and present creates such a powerful chemistry, both professionally and romantically.
There are some tough things tackled too- health issues, anxiety, toxic relationships, cancel culture- and it rounded out the story with a lovely bit of grit that I so enjoy in romcoms, but that draws me particularly to Kasey's modern romances over and over.
This story brought me so much joy and now I will say that I am fully invested in the rest of the Belacourts!
I received a copy of the story from the author for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
This was so many fun things wrapped up into one- secret identities, celebrities, second chances, slow burn, found family- sigh. It was the perfect package. It hit all the fun notes of being a romcom, especially as Bree, hiding out after a potential career-ending disaster, stumbles into the wrong house, gets caught spying, dresses up in goofy wigs and fakes a concussion. The way that she is super wrapped up with Benny from the past and present creates such a powerful chemistry, both professionally and romantically.
There are some tough things tackled too- health issues, anxiety, toxic relationships, cancel culture- and it rounded out the story with a lovely bit of grit that I so enjoy in romcoms, but that draws me particularly to Kasey's modern romances over and over.
This story brought me so much joy and now I will say that I am fully invested in the rest of the Belacourts!
I received a copy of the story from the author for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
Did Not Finish
August 4, 2026Let me start by saying I am an audio listener. I am new to "reading" romance novels. I don't like overly explicit books. When I stumbled onto "clean" Romance novels, it was nice. I listen to these books at work with my ear buds. The light hearted romance books are very palatable. I started with Kasey Stockton. I listened to Her Arcadia Creek series, I enjoyed them. It seemed like an easy choice to start with her newest book, The Ex-Best Thing (The Belacourts) The Problem is, I cant handle the male Character's voice :( I have trouble with narrators who draw the last part of each sentence way out, in a breathy way. I am sure some listeners like it, but it is very breathy and drawn out and seems to increase the more I listen. I have even tried speeding it up a little to make it easier to get past. However in this book the male and female characters don't do separate chapters. If I speed it up to deal with the male Character then the female voice starts to sound like a chipmunk. This isn't a review that will effect those who are reading the written book. I thought this might be helpful to others who listen instead.
July 12, 2026
The Brief: Bree is hiding out in Bodega Bay, but Benny sees through her disguise. He’ll keep her secret and has one of his own.
The Debrief: A second chance romance is my jam so I was hooked at the very first awkward meet again. So much chemistry. Fun. Flirty. Dreamy. I Love Lucy moments (trust me that this is a compliment). And a flash of Hannah Montana (also a huge compliment).
Let’s talk bout Benny. Layered and smitten and so thoughtful of her needs. He was like a cozy cup of hot chocolate that hits the perfect warmth. And Bree just spoke to my soul. The non-famous hiding from scandal side of my soul. She was flawed and vulnerable and I loved her relationship with Nancy. And I need to know more about these additional family members that make an appearance! Romcom perfection.
The Rhyme: Bree just wants her voice to be heard, but her music is on hold. Can Benny give her a second chance and encourage her to be bold?
The Debrief: A second chance romance is my jam so I was hooked at the very first awkward meet again. So much chemistry. Fun. Flirty. Dreamy. I Love Lucy moments (trust me that this is a compliment). And a flash of Hannah Montana (also a huge compliment).
Let’s talk bout Benny. Layered and smitten and so thoughtful of her needs. He was like a cozy cup of hot chocolate that hits the perfect warmth. And Bree just spoke to my soul. The non-famous hiding from scandal side of my soul. She was flawed and vulnerable and I loved her relationship with Nancy. And I need to know more about these additional family members that make an appearance! Romcom perfection.
The Rhyme: Bree just wants her voice to be heard, but her music is on hold. Can Benny give her a second chance and encourage her to be bold?
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