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Golden City #4
The Run Back Home
Lenora O'Reilly has many names—Nora, Lenny, Len—but only one major regret: choosing small-town life over true love.
When high school ended, Lenny couldn’t bring herself to leave the safety, security, and familiarity of Mage Hollow—even if it meant walking away from the plans she’d built with her MLB-bound boyfriend.
But what she didn’t realize was that the one thing she truly needed would disappear the moment she made that choice—
Him.
Now Lenny spends her life as a travel nurse—always moving, always leaving—because the place she once called home has never felt like home again.
Jace Holloway was always meant for the big leagues—talented, driven, and able to anticipate the last minute bounce or unpredictable hop. And the pit-stop his family made in Mage Hollow only proved that nothing could derail his dreams.
But there was one curveball Jace never saw coming—
Lenny staying after he left.
Now, six years later, although he's thriving in Golden City with his family back together, he's still living with regrets of his own.
And without the one person he never stopped missing.
When Lenny’s newest nursing assignment lands her in the same city where Jace now starts at shortstop for the Gators, neither of them expects to keep bumping into each other.
But they should have known—the universe has always had a way of putting them together.
Now they’re learning that you can’t outrun your problems.
And that scoring big almost always means heading home.
When high school ended, Lenny couldn’t bring herself to leave the safety, security, and familiarity of Mage Hollow—even if it meant walking away from the plans she’d built with her MLB-bound boyfriend.
But what she didn’t realize was that the one thing she truly needed would disappear the moment she made that choice—
Him.
Now Lenny spends her life as a travel nurse—always moving, always leaving—because the place she once called home has never felt like home again.
Jace Holloway was always meant for the big leagues—talented, driven, and able to anticipate the last minute bounce or unpredictable hop. And the pit-stop his family made in Mage Hollow only proved that nothing could derail his dreams.
But there was one curveball Jace never saw coming—
Lenny staying after he left.
Now, six years later, although he's thriving in Golden City with his family back together, he's still living with regrets of his own.
And without the one person he never stopped missing.
When Lenny’s newest nursing assignment lands her in the same city where Jace now starts at shortstop for the Gators, neither of them expects to keep bumping into each other.
But they should have known—the universe has always had a way of putting them together.
Now they’re learning that you can’t outrun your problems.
And that scoring big almost always means heading home.
391 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 23, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
September 23, 2026
The Run Back Home by Cassandra Moll
⭐⭐⭐⭐¾ (4.75/5)
What a beautiful second-chance romance about finding home again. Jace and Lenora (aka Nora, aka Lenny, aka Len) prove that fated mates can exist in the real world, reunited after six years of silence following the end of their first-love relationship.
I really like Lenny. She is super relatable, moving from place to place as a travel nurse in her quest to find somewhere that feels like home. And who wouldn't feel anxious about returning to their hometown, knowing they are likely to run into their ex, especially if he is the only serious relationship they've ever had? I love that she owns her role in their breakup and doesn't try to make any excuses for her behavior. Her relationship with Jace aside, she is kind, patient, and confident—exactly the kind of friend I would want.
And Jace? By now, I think everyone knows I go feral for a quiet man with relationship wounds. Lenny describes him best: "But Jace has always been that way—feeling a lot, saying a little." I've never seen a one-line description that fits all of my book boyfriends so succinctly. I appreciate that he is wary of Lenny when she returns to his orbit but is still open to hearing her out and forgiving her, which felt authentic. And his relationship with his little sister had me melting into a giant puddle. He is so sweet and genuinely wants to spend time with her, not out of guilt or obligation, but because he loves her. Nothing is sexier than a man playing with a child in a park (fight me).
I love the dual timelines that show how Lenny and Jace first came together—and fell apart—woven with their reunion and second chance. I'm not always a fan of the device, but it really worked here.
The spice is a slow burn and is more sweet than smutty. I love how the emotional connection between Lenny and Jace really shines during those moments.
I am so sad that this is the end of the Golden City series, one I've really come to love. That said, this was the perfect way to close it out, giving us glimpses of the couples from the earlier books so we know everyone is still living out their HEA.
I'm really excited to see where Cassandra Moll takes us next.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC.
⭐⭐⭐⭐¾ (4.75/5)
What a beautiful second-chance romance about finding home again. Jace and Lenora (aka Nora, aka Lenny, aka Len) prove that fated mates can exist in the real world, reunited after six years of silence following the end of their first-love relationship.
I really like Lenny. She is super relatable, moving from place to place as a travel nurse in her quest to find somewhere that feels like home. And who wouldn't feel anxious about returning to their hometown, knowing they are likely to run into their ex, especially if he is the only serious relationship they've ever had? I love that she owns her role in their breakup and doesn't try to make any excuses for her behavior. Her relationship with Jace aside, she is kind, patient, and confident—exactly the kind of friend I would want.
And Jace? By now, I think everyone knows I go feral for a quiet man with relationship wounds. Lenny describes him best: "But Jace has always been that way—feeling a lot, saying a little." I've never seen a one-line description that fits all of my book boyfriends so succinctly. I appreciate that he is wary of Lenny when she returns to his orbit but is still open to hearing her out and forgiving her, which felt authentic. And his relationship with his little sister had me melting into a giant puddle. He is so sweet and genuinely wants to spend time with her, not out of guilt or obligation, but because he loves her. Nothing is sexier than a man playing with a child in a park (fight me).
I love the dual timelines that show how Lenny and Jace first came together—and fell apart—woven with their reunion and second chance. I'm not always a fan of the device, but it really worked here.
The spice is a slow burn and is more sweet than smutty. I love how the emotional connection between Lenny and Jace really shines during those moments.
I am so sad that this is the end of the Golden City series, one I've really come to love. That said, this was the perfect way to close it out, giving us glimpses of the couples from the earlier books so we know everyone is still living out their HEA.
I'm really excited to see where Cassandra Moll takes us next.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is such a beautiful story of second chances for Jace and Lenny, and learning to trust again. The side story of Vienna absolutely stole my heart.
There was definitely a full emotional pull through this book. Watching the past unravel alongside the present kept the pull right at the surface for me. I love having the past story sprinkled through the book like this.
Tropes:
⚾Baseball Romance
🩺Shortstop x Nurse
⏳Second Chance
🤟ASL Rep🔮Fated Mates
🔥Slow Burn
There was definitely a full emotional pull through this book. Watching the past unravel alongside the present kept the pull right at the surface for me. I love having the past story sprinkled through the book like this.
Tropes:
⚾Baseball Romance
🩺Shortstop x Nurse
⏳Second Chance
🤟ASL Rep🔮Fated Mates
🔥Slow Burn
September 23, 2026
Love love LOVE these two!! i wish i could read this book again for the first time! will be rereading this book!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beautiful series finale. This book was such a good ending, it was emotional but also had lighter moments. Absolutely loved Vienna and I couldn't help but smile when she was on page. I find it so lovely how Jace really stepped up for her and is there for his little sister. Lenny is relatable and I just loved her attitude.
I love how this book worked in dual timelines it really helped understand Jace and Lenny's current relationship and why they acted towards each other the way they do. I also loved that these two actually properly discussed the past so that they could have future.
Sad to be leaving Golden City but I have no doubt I will revisit!!
I love how this book worked in dual timelines it really helped understand Jace and Lenny's current relationship and why they acted towards each other the way they do. I also loved that these two actually properly discussed the past so that they could have future.
Sad to be leaving Golden City but I have no doubt I will revisit!!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
ARC Review | The Run Back Home by Cassandra Moll
The Run Back Home captivated me from the moment I started reading. I was completely pulled into Jace and Lenny’s story and honestly couldn’t put it down.
College shortstop Jace Holloway had his teenage heart broken when the love of his life, Lenora “Lenny” O’Reilly, changed her mind about the future they had planned together. This story takes us back to where it all started — the first day they met, their first kiss, Jace playing baseball and the memories that shaped their relationship.
Then, six years later, they find themselves face-to-face again.
Six years may have passed, but their connection is still just as strong.
Lenny says, “I don’t necessarily notice him at first… But a subtle change in the energy around us, in my heart.” And I loved how Cassandra captured that feeling of recognising someone who has always held a special place in your heart, even after years apart.
Jace’s life has changed dramatically. He has become an MLB shortstop for Golden City and a big brother to a very special girl who is deaf. Meanwhile, Lenny has built a career as a travel nurse, moving from place to place and never really allowing herself to put down roots.
As they find their way back to each other, they have to confront the past, rebuild their trust and decide whether they are brave enough to give their relationship another chance.
I really enjoyed the dual POV, with the story told in the present from both Jace and Lenny’s perspectives. It allowed me to understand both sides of their story and their emotions, especially the reasons behind the choices they made years ago.
Cassandra has created two characters who feel incredibly real and relatable. Lenny is strong, independent and capable, but underneath that strength is someone who is scared of getting hurt and taking another leap of faith. I loved seeing her slowly realise that protecting herself doesn’t always mean walking away from the things she wants.
Jace is equally easy to connect with. He is strong and successful, but he carries regret, heartbreak and the memories of the life he once imagined with Lenny. His softer side, especially when it comes to his family, added another layer to his character. Watching both of them work through their fears, communicate, rebuild trust and allow themselves to be vulnerable made their journey feel genuine.
Their relationship is a beautiful reminder that sometimes home isn’t a place — it’s a person.
This was such an enjoyable slow-burn childhood-lovers sports romance with plenty of emotion, chemistry and that second-chance feeling I love.
✨ What I loved:
❤️ Childhood sweethearts
⚾ Sports romance
🔥 Slow burn
💞 Second chance
👫 Dual POV
🥹 Emotional connection
❤️ Characters who feel real and relatable
Favourite moments/quotes:
Jace: “Why are you wearing that? That jersey? Take it off.”
Lenny: “They didn’t have your number.”
Jace slips his jersey off and hands it to Lenny.
And of course…
“Lenny Girl.” 🥹❤️
Overall, The Run Back Home was a captivating and emotional read that had me invested in Jace and Lenny from beginning to end. Cassandra Moll has created a romance filled with heart, history, chemistry and characters you genuinely want to see find their way back to each other.
⭐️ ARC review — thank you to Cassandra Moll for the opportunity to read this book
The Run Back Home captivated me from the moment I started reading. I was completely pulled into Jace and Lenny’s story and honestly couldn’t put it down.
College shortstop Jace Holloway had his teenage heart broken when the love of his life, Lenora “Lenny” O’Reilly, changed her mind about the future they had planned together. This story takes us back to where it all started — the first day they met, their first kiss, Jace playing baseball and the memories that shaped their relationship.
Then, six years later, they find themselves face-to-face again.
Six years may have passed, but their connection is still just as strong.
Lenny says, “I don’t necessarily notice him at first… But a subtle change in the energy around us, in my heart.” And I loved how Cassandra captured that feeling of recognising someone who has always held a special place in your heart, even after years apart.
Jace’s life has changed dramatically. He has become an MLB shortstop for Golden City and a big brother to a very special girl who is deaf. Meanwhile, Lenny has built a career as a travel nurse, moving from place to place and never really allowing herself to put down roots.
As they find their way back to each other, they have to confront the past, rebuild their trust and decide whether they are brave enough to give their relationship another chance.
I really enjoyed the dual POV, with the story told in the present from both Jace and Lenny’s perspectives. It allowed me to understand both sides of their story and their emotions, especially the reasons behind the choices they made years ago.
Cassandra has created two characters who feel incredibly real and relatable. Lenny is strong, independent and capable, but underneath that strength is someone who is scared of getting hurt and taking another leap of faith. I loved seeing her slowly realise that protecting herself doesn’t always mean walking away from the things she wants.
Jace is equally easy to connect with. He is strong and successful, but he carries regret, heartbreak and the memories of the life he once imagined with Lenny. His softer side, especially when it comes to his family, added another layer to his character. Watching both of them work through their fears, communicate, rebuild trust and allow themselves to be vulnerable made their journey feel genuine.
Their relationship is a beautiful reminder that sometimes home isn’t a place — it’s a person.
This was such an enjoyable slow-burn childhood-lovers sports romance with plenty of emotion, chemistry and that second-chance feeling I love.
✨ What I loved:
❤️ Childhood sweethearts
⚾ Sports romance
🔥 Slow burn
💞 Second chance
👫 Dual POV
🥹 Emotional connection
❤️ Characters who feel real and relatable
Favourite moments/quotes:
Jace: “Why are you wearing that? That jersey? Take it off.”
Lenny: “They didn’t have your number.”
Jace slips his jersey off and hands it to Lenny.
And of course…
“Lenny Girl.” 🥹❤️
Overall, The Run Back Home was a captivating and emotional read that had me invested in Jace and Lenny from beginning to end. Cassandra Moll has created a romance filled with heart, history, chemistry and characters you genuinely want to see find their way back to each other.
⭐️ ARC review — thank you to Cassandra Moll for the opportunity to read this book
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
THE RUN BACK HOME by CASSANDRA MOLL ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Run Back Home is the fourth (#4) book in the GOLDEN CITY series
College shortstop Jace Holloway’s teenage heart was broken when the love of his life Lenora O’Reilly reneged on on their plans for the future, too afraid to follow her heart and leave her hometown.
Six years later Jace is thriving in Golden City as a MLB shortstop, living his dream and helping care for his young sister. Life would be perfect if it wasn’t for his regrets over the one that got away.
Suffocating in the town that’s saturated with memories of the future she threw away, Lenny eventually left Mage Hollow to work as a travel nurse, moving around, never settling.
When her next assignment has her in Golden City she hopes to work her six weeks and move on to the next job without coming across Jase but fate has a way of intervening and they keep bumping into each other…….
————————————
The Run Back Home is a delightful conclusion to the Golden City series.
With perfect pacing TRBH is told in the present from the dual pov of the MCs but with occasional chapters skipping to the past and reliving the events that led to Jace and Lenny’s parting and animosity.
Lenny is in many ways a strong, independent woman. She travels wherever she’s needed working short nursing contracts yet it was her insecurity, her fear of expanding her boundaries that led to her breaking up with Jace. The irony is that after he left the memories they shared and her proximity to her family was what led her to branch out on her own anyway.
Jace is living his best life,being shortstop in the MLB is everything he dreamed of growing up. He’s reconnected with his family, and absolutely adores his (deaf) sister. He lives with guilt over the time he spent away from his sister, unable to return to Mage Hollow, but now they are living close again and his only remaining regret is that he can’t move on from his memories of Lenny.
When the pair unexpectedly reconnect the tension is palpable. Jace can’t forgive Lenny’s betrayal and is frustrated that the attraction is still there and Lenny has guilt over the way she let her cowardice dictate their lives, she has never been able to move on from the only man she has ever loved.
The Run Back Home highlights the importance of honesty in relationships, of not assuming and of being brave enough to talk.
The couples slow reconnection is perfect and you can’t help but cheer this pair to their hea. The side characters are interesting and I particularly enjoyed Dylan & Vienna.
Inevitably with the growth of their relationship there are open door spicy scenes but these are dealt with tastefully.
I read an ebook version of this book, with around 420 pages, great editing and an illustrated character cover. This book releases on September 23rd 2026.
With thanks to Cassandra Moll for an early chance to read this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
⚾️ Baseball Romance
⚾️ Second Chance
⚾️ ASL/ Deaf Child
⚾️ Small Town Romance
⚾️ Nurse
The Run Back Home is the fourth (#4) book in the GOLDEN CITY series
College shortstop Jace Holloway’s teenage heart was broken when the love of his life Lenora O’Reilly reneged on on their plans for the future, too afraid to follow her heart and leave her hometown.
Six years later Jace is thriving in Golden City as a MLB shortstop, living his dream and helping care for his young sister. Life would be perfect if it wasn’t for his regrets over the one that got away.
Suffocating in the town that’s saturated with memories of the future she threw away, Lenny eventually left Mage Hollow to work as a travel nurse, moving around, never settling.
When her next assignment has her in Golden City she hopes to work her six weeks and move on to the next job without coming across Jase but fate has a way of intervening and they keep bumping into each other…….
————————————
The Run Back Home is a delightful conclusion to the Golden City series.
With perfect pacing TRBH is told in the present from the dual pov of the MCs but with occasional chapters skipping to the past and reliving the events that led to Jace and Lenny’s parting and animosity.
Lenny is in many ways a strong, independent woman. She travels wherever she’s needed working short nursing contracts yet it was her insecurity, her fear of expanding her boundaries that led to her breaking up with Jace. The irony is that after he left the memories they shared and her proximity to her family was what led her to branch out on her own anyway.
Jace is living his best life,being shortstop in the MLB is everything he dreamed of growing up. He’s reconnected with his family, and absolutely adores his (deaf) sister. He lives with guilt over the time he spent away from his sister, unable to return to Mage Hollow, but now they are living close again and his only remaining regret is that he can’t move on from his memories of Lenny.
When the pair unexpectedly reconnect the tension is palpable. Jace can’t forgive Lenny’s betrayal and is frustrated that the attraction is still there and Lenny has guilt over the way she let her cowardice dictate their lives, she has never been able to move on from the only man she has ever loved.
The Run Back Home highlights the importance of honesty in relationships, of not assuming and of being brave enough to talk.
The couples slow reconnection is perfect and you can’t help but cheer this pair to their hea. The side characters are interesting and I particularly enjoyed Dylan & Vienna.
Inevitably with the growth of their relationship there are open door spicy scenes but these are dealt with tastefully.
I read an ebook version of this book, with around 420 pages, great editing and an illustrated character cover. This book releases on September 23rd 2026.
With thanks to Cassandra Moll for an early chance to read this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
⚾️ Baseball Romance
⚾️ Second Chance
⚾️ ASL/ Deaf Child
⚾️ Small Town Romance
⚾️ Nurse
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book grabbed me from the start. The yearning is excellent and the writing kept me reading until late into the night. Although I have read another in the series it truly is a standalone story - it just takes place in the same universe.
Lenny is a travel nurse, who gets sent to various hospitals when they need someone to fill in for a while. She seems to have someone who arranges these placements for her. Lenny gets sent to a hospital in Golden City, not far from her small hometown.
Also in Golden City is Jace, Lenny's MLB-playing ex-boyfriend. He's a shortstop for the team there and from the moment Lenny moves to Golden City, she and Jace keep running into each other. Lenny and Jace were a couple in high school, but broke up after Lenny broke her promise to jace to follow him to university, instead choosing to stay in their hometown.
The book alternates between chapters set in the present day and the past, in first-person POV. This makes for an interesting dynamic, as in the chapters set in the past Lenny and Jace are shown heading towards their inevitable break-up, whereas in the present they're growing towards each other once again.
I liked jace A LOT. He doesn't trust Lenny at first in the present - and who would, given that she never explained properly why she broke her promise to follow him and instead broke up with him after slowly and painfully reducing their contact? He still wants her though and reading his confusion and thoughts really made me sympathise with him. He's angry about how Lenny treated him but still loves her too, after all this time. He has to ask Lenny multiple times to explain why she broke up with him and only gets some sort of answer midway in the book.
More conflicted were my feelings about Lenny. I liked her, but she also frustrated me. She claims to still want Jace, and even goes so far to buy him some products in a store which he didn't ask for only to skulk around his apartment building in the hope he'll turn up. She can't explain clearly to anyone - even six years later - why exactly she broke up with Jace. Her relationship with her mother is also complicated, . Why exactly it's SO complicated never became fully clear to me. The ironic part is that Lenny felt she couldn't follow Jace to university - and couldn't tell him at the time why - but later decided that she could leave to travel as a nurse. She (rightfully) feels guilty about how she treated Jace.
I really loved the build-up to Jace and Lenny getting back together again. The spice is open door and, just like the rest of the book, really well-written. The story as a whole flowed really well and certain characters from other books make a very brief cameo. The side characters, particularly Jace's little sister Vienna, who is Deaf, really added to the story and also helped pace it.
Many thanks to Cassandra Moll for the ARC!
Lenny is a travel nurse, who gets sent to various hospitals when they need someone to fill in for a while. She seems to have someone who arranges these placements for her. Lenny gets sent to a hospital in Golden City, not far from her small hometown.
Also in Golden City is Jace, Lenny's MLB-playing ex-boyfriend. He's a shortstop for the team there and from the moment Lenny moves to Golden City, she and Jace keep running into each other. Lenny and Jace were a couple in high school, but broke up after Lenny broke her promise to jace to follow him to university, instead choosing to stay in their hometown.
The book alternates between chapters set in the present day and the past, in first-person POV. This makes for an interesting dynamic, as in the chapters set in the past Lenny and Jace are shown heading towards their inevitable break-up, whereas in the present they're growing towards each other once again.
I liked jace A LOT. He doesn't trust Lenny at first in the present - and who would, given that she never explained properly why she broke her promise to follow him and instead broke up with him after slowly and painfully reducing their contact? He still wants her though and reading his confusion and thoughts really made me sympathise with him. He's angry about how Lenny treated him but still loves her too, after all this time. He has to ask Lenny multiple times to explain why she broke up with him and only gets some sort of answer midway in the book.
More conflicted were my feelings about Lenny. I liked her, but she also frustrated me. She claims to still want Jace, and even goes so far to buy him some products in a store which he didn't ask for only to skulk around his apartment building in the hope he'll turn up. She can't explain clearly to anyone - even six years later - why exactly she broke up with Jace. Her relationship with her mother is also complicated, . Why exactly it's SO complicated never became fully clear to me. The ironic part is that Lenny felt she couldn't follow Jace to university - and couldn't tell him at the time why - but later decided that she could leave to travel as a nurse. She (rightfully) feels guilty about how she treated Jace.
I really loved the build-up to Jace and Lenny getting back together again. The spice is open door and, just like the rest of the book, really well-written. The story as a whole flowed really well and certain characters from other books make a very brief cameo. The side characters, particularly Jace's little sister Vienna, who is Deaf, really added to the story and also helped pace it.
Many thanks to Cassandra Moll for the ARC!
September 29, 2026
**Rating: 4.75/5 Stars — A beautiful, tear-jerking home run for the Golden City series.**
Cassandra Moll delivers a spectacular and deeply emotional farewell to the *Golden City* series with *The Run Back Home*. Released just a few days ago on September 23, 2026, this fourth and final installment gives us the highly anticipated, dual-POV story of standout shortstop Jace and the love of his life, Lenny. Moll has crafted a second-chance romance that completely consumes you, perfectly balancing intense yearning with a deeply rooted, fated connection.
The storytelling structure is one of the book’s greatest strengths. By expertly weaving between past and present timelines, Moll slowly unravels the shared history between Jace and Lenny. This dual perspective builds up an agonizingly beautiful slow-burn romance. You understand exactly why their bond is so profound, making the emotional payoff at the end that much sweeter. It is an undeniable emotional rollercoaster—be prepared to shed some genuine tears before arriving at a heartwarming, feel-good conclusion that will leave you smiling.
A few standout elements make this installment particularly special:
* **Thoughtful Representation:** The prominent and respectful inclusion of American Sign Language (ASL) is a beautiful addition to the story, organically shaping how Jace and Lenny communicate and connect on a deeper level.
* **The Otter Motif:** There is a unique, incredibly endearing subplot involving otters that ties brilliantly into their relationship dynamic. It adds a touch of lighthearted charm to the heavy emotional beats.
* **High-Stakes Baseball:** The professional sports setting is vivid and engaging. Jace’s career as a shortstop adds excellent external tension without overpowering the central romance.
While *The Run Back Home* functions perfectly well as a standalone for newcomers, long-time fans of the *Golden City* universe are in for a treat. The bittersweet cameos from beloved characters across the previous books make this a highly rewarding and nostalgic finale.
This earns a 4.75 because of the sheer level of angst in the past-timeline chapters occasionally makes the slow burn feel almost unbearably agonizing—though that is exactly what makes the resolution so triumphant. If you love sports romances with soul-deep connections and masterful emotional tension, this is an absolute must-read.
Cassandra Moll delivers a spectacular and deeply emotional farewell to the *Golden City* series with *The Run Back Home*. Released just a few days ago on September 23, 2026, this fourth and final installment gives us the highly anticipated, dual-POV story of standout shortstop Jace and the love of his life, Lenny. Moll has crafted a second-chance romance that completely consumes you, perfectly balancing intense yearning with a deeply rooted, fated connection.
The storytelling structure is one of the book’s greatest strengths. By expertly weaving between past and present timelines, Moll slowly unravels the shared history between Jace and Lenny. This dual perspective builds up an agonizingly beautiful slow-burn romance. You understand exactly why their bond is so profound, making the emotional payoff at the end that much sweeter. It is an undeniable emotional rollercoaster—be prepared to shed some genuine tears before arriving at a heartwarming, feel-good conclusion that will leave you smiling.
A few standout elements make this installment particularly special:
* **Thoughtful Representation:** The prominent and respectful inclusion of American Sign Language (ASL) is a beautiful addition to the story, organically shaping how Jace and Lenny communicate and connect on a deeper level.
* **The Otter Motif:** There is a unique, incredibly endearing subplot involving otters that ties brilliantly into their relationship dynamic. It adds a touch of lighthearted charm to the heavy emotional beats.
* **High-Stakes Baseball:** The professional sports setting is vivid and engaging. Jace’s career as a shortstop adds excellent external tension without overpowering the central romance.
While *The Run Back Home* functions perfectly well as a standalone for newcomers, long-time fans of the *Golden City* universe are in for a treat. The bittersweet cameos from beloved characters across the previous books make this a highly rewarding and nostalgic finale.
This earns a 4.75 because of the sheer level of angst in the past-timeline chapters occasionally makes the slow burn feel almost unbearably agonizing—though that is exactly what makes the resolution so triumphant. If you love sports romances with soul-deep connections and masterful emotional tension, this is an absolute must-read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Some love stories are about falling in love. Others are about figuring out whether the love you never truly got over is worth fighting for a second time. The Run Back Home falls firmly into that second category, and I absolutely loved watching Jace and Lenny find their way back to each other.
What I really enjoyed was that this wasn’t an instant-fix second-chance romance. There was hurt to unpack, trust to rebuild, and plenty of things left unsaid. Their journey back toward one another felt gradual and believable, and I loved seeing them finally confront the things that had kept them apart.
Jace was such an easy character to root for. He’s living his MLB dream, but beneath the successful baseball player is a man carrying regret and a huge amount of love for the people in his life. His relationship with his sister was one of my favorite parts of his character and gave the story an emotional layer that I really appreciated.
And Lenny? I loved her independence. She built a life for herself by constantly moving forward, but that didn’t mean she had completely moved past Jace. Seeing her wrestle with old fears while deciding what she actually wanted for her future made her feel incredibly human.
And the chemistry? 👀🔥
Let’s just say these two may have needed six years apart, but they definitely didn’t forget how to push each other’s buttons.
I also loved the baseball backdrop, the small-town atmosphere, the family dynamics, and the supporting characters woven throughout the story. It gave the romance a full world around it rather than making the relationship feel like the only thing happening.
❤️ My favorite parts:
⚾️ MLB/baseball romance
💔 Second-chance love
🏡 Small-town setting
🫶 Childhood sweethearts
🔥 Slow-burn tension
👫 Dual POV
💬 Emotional conversations
❤️🩹 Rebuilding trust
👨👩👧 Strong family relationships
👀 Plenty of chemistry
The Run Back Home is an emotional, heartfelt second-chance romance about growing up, making mistakes, finding your way, and realizing that sometimes the person you’ve been trying to leave behind is exactly where your heart has been waiting all along.
And honestly? Jace and Lenny deserved their way back to each other. 🥹❤️
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
What I really enjoyed was that this wasn’t an instant-fix second-chance romance. There was hurt to unpack, trust to rebuild, and plenty of things left unsaid. Their journey back toward one another felt gradual and believable, and I loved seeing them finally confront the things that had kept them apart.
Jace was such an easy character to root for. He’s living his MLB dream, but beneath the successful baseball player is a man carrying regret and a huge amount of love for the people in his life. His relationship with his sister was one of my favorite parts of his character and gave the story an emotional layer that I really appreciated.
And Lenny? I loved her independence. She built a life for herself by constantly moving forward, but that didn’t mean she had completely moved past Jace. Seeing her wrestle with old fears while deciding what she actually wanted for her future made her feel incredibly human.
And the chemistry? 👀🔥
Let’s just say these two may have needed six years apart, but they definitely didn’t forget how to push each other’s buttons.
I also loved the baseball backdrop, the small-town atmosphere, the family dynamics, and the supporting characters woven throughout the story. It gave the romance a full world around it rather than making the relationship feel like the only thing happening.
❤️ My favorite parts:
⚾️ MLB/baseball romance
💔 Second-chance love
🏡 Small-town setting
🫶 Childhood sweethearts
🔥 Slow-burn tension
👫 Dual POV
💬 Emotional conversations
❤️🩹 Rebuilding trust
👨👩👧 Strong family relationships
👀 Plenty of chemistry
The Run Back Home is an emotional, heartfelt second-chance romance about growing up, making mistakes, finding your way, and realizing that sometimes the person you’ve been trying to leave behind is exactly where your heart has been waiting all along.
And honestly? Jace and Lenny deserved their way back to each other. 🥹❤️
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Run Back Home by Cassandra Moll
First and foremost, how can this be the end of Golden City? What about JJ? Dylan? JJ AND Dylan?! The ending of this book sounded like it was being perfectly set up for them. We should riot, wail, lament and gnash our teeth until Cassandra Moll gives us more of these Hockey and Baseball Gods and their strong, amazing women. Sigh…or just be thankful for such a fantastic series.
If this has to be the end, this was a great way to go out. Jace and Lenny’s story had all the things. Young love, the heartbreak of losing that love, resentment, guilt, healing and yes, spice. Can’t forget the spice.
Jace and Lenny meet in high school and fall in love. He has big dreams of making it to the MLB, while Lenny had only ever planned to stay in their small hometown near her family. Lenny agrees to follow Jace to college when she graduates so they can begin living the life they planned together. To avoid spoilers, that doesn’t happen, and it is now six years later and Jace and Lenny are about to be running into each other a lot as she accepts a job as a traveling nurse in Golden City, where he is living his dream, playing MLB baseball for the GC Gators. We find out, through a series of very well placed flashbacks, what happened six years ago and how they’ve dealt with the ramifications of it all since.
I laughed, I cried, I grumbled-loudly when they failed to communicate with each other again, which was what got them into their predicament to begin with. But fear not, they get their HEA and we get a chance to visit with some of our other GC friends before the end of the book.
Other highlights for me included Jace’s relationship with his sister, Vienna, who is deaf. The running theme of otters holding hands so they don’t float away from each other was also the perfect analogy for this couple. Finally, it’s not very often I get misty when I come across the title of a book within the story. This one got me, right in the feels.
I highly recommend anything by this author and this series is a great place to start! You’ll soon realize why so many of us want to live in Golden City.
First and foremost, how can this be the end of Golden City? What about JJ? Dylan? JJ AND Dylan?! The ending of this book sounded like it was being perfectly set up for them. We should riot, wail, lament and gnash our teeth until Cassandra Moll gives us more of these Hockey and Baseball Gods and their strong, amazing women. Sigh…or just be thankful for such a fantastic series.
If this has to be the end, this was a great way to go out. Jace and Lenny’s story had all the things. Young love, the heartbreak of losing that love, resentment, guilt, healing and yes, spice. Can’t forget the spice.
Jace and Lenny meet in high school and fall in love. He has big dreams of making it to the MLB, while Lenny had only ever planned to stay in their small hometown near her family. Lenny agrees to follow Jace to college when she graduates so they can begin living the life they planned together. To avoid spoilers, that doesn’t happen, and it is now six years later and Jace and Lenny are about to be running into each other a lot as she accepts a job as a traveling nurse in Golden City, where he is living his dream, playing MLB baseball for the GC Gators. We find out, through a series of very well placed flashbacks, what happened six years ago and how they’ve dealt with the ramifications of it all since.
I laughed, I cried, I grumbled-loudly when they failed to communicate with each other again, which was what got them into their predicament to begin with. But fear not, they get their HEA and we get a chance to visit with some of our other GC friends before the end of the book.
Other highlights for me included Jace’s relationship with his sister, Vienna, who is deaf. The running theme of otters holding hands so they don’t float away from each other was also the perfect analogy for this couple. Finally, it’s not very often I get misty when I come across the title of a book within the story. This one got me, right in the feels.
I highly recommend anything by this author and this series is a great place to start! You’ll soon realize why so many of us want to live in Golden City.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Cassandra Moll for the opportunity to receive, read and review an ARC of The Run Back Home, book 4 in the Golden City Series. As always before jumping into any book, please take care of yourselves and always check the author's socials for any and all trigger warnings. FYI, there might be spoilers ahead.
This is a second chance, slow burn romance between baseball shortstop Jace Holloway and traveling nurse Lenny O'Riley. Right off the bat what I adored was how these two met again after six years of being apart, and I loved how they sort of fell back into their normal rhythm as if no time had passed. To put it simply, Jace is an absolute green flag who yearns for her, and Lenny, she brings a little more black cat energy but at her core is extremely caring and soft natured. I enjoyed the flashbacks to them in the past which were the perfect little insight into them starting out as friends and solidified their little quirks and communication styles as a couple. There were many points throughout the book that I genuinely felt for Jace. I feel like he was left with so many unanswered questions about the way their relationship ended and as a reader, I felt like Lenny could have communicated that better. But I do understand that she was feeling stuck, not with him but just in her life, she felt like she didn't know who she was as an individual and that I think is a feeling we can all to some extent relate to. I think the spice was the perfect amount and definitely added to the slow burn trope of their story. I did find that the ending was a bit rushed and I maybe would have liked an epilogue with a greater time jump to see exactly how the couple evolved.
What solidified this rating for me was Jace and his relationship with his sister who is deaf. The ASL representation was done so well and I adored how she brought out the softer side in all the characters that she interacted with. It was such a beautiful and unique dynamic that added so much warmth to the story.
Overall, this was fun read!
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Spicy Rating: 🌶️🌶️ / 5
This is a second chance, slow burn romance between baseball shortstop Jace Holloway and traveling nurse Lenny O'Riley. Right off the bat what I adored was how these two met again after six years of being apart, and I loved how they sort of fell back into their normal rhythm as if no time had passed. To put it simply, Jace is an absolute green flag who yearns for her, and Lenny, she brings a little more black cat energy but at her core is extremely caring and soft natured. I enjoyed the flashbacks to them in the past which were the perfect little insight into them starting out as friends and solidified their little quirks and communication styles as a couple. There were many points throughout the book that I genuinely felt for Jace. I feel like he was left with so many unanswered questions about the way their relationship ended and as a reader, I felt like Lenny could have communicated that better. But I do understand that she was feeling stuck, not with him but just in her life, she felt like she didn't know who she was as an individual and that I think is a feeling we can all to some extent relate to. I think the spice was the perfect amount and definitely added to the slow burn trope of their story. I did find that the ending was a bit rushed and I maybe would have liked an epilogue with a greater time jump to see exactly how the couple evolved.
What solidified this rating for me was Jace and his relationship with his sister who is deaf. The ASL representation was done so well and I adored how she brought out the softer side in all the characters that she interacted with. It was such a beautiful and unique dynamic that added so much warmth to the story.
Overall, this was fun read!
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Spicy Rating: 🌶️🌶️ / 5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wanted to personally thank Cassandra for allowing me to read and review her book before it is released to the public as an ARC reader.
Oh Lenny girl, how I saw so much of myself in you throughout the book. She was such a relatable character: being young and in love, trying to write her own narrative, while trying to live up to the expectations set for her by others. Being in a relationship where you don’t see anyone else or life without them, until your dreams don’t align with theirs, and you feel like your only option is to run. And Jace, how his love persisted over time and just held on through it all, but love always finds a way. He is such a great guy who just never gave up and he knew his heart only belonged to one person. The beauty of heartbreak at a young age grounded him and allowed him to be there for his family. Their second chance love story just showed how time apart, growth and maturity can lead to a different ending if both people put in the effort to make it work. Also just how they realized that dreams can evolve and change was so wonderful to witness as well. I loved the representation of the deaf community throughout the book as well. I have loved this series so much and loved the reappearance of characters from past books in this book! It was a perfect way to end the series, and I will miss these characters so much! 💜
Some quotes I loved without context:
“You don’t usually get a second swing at the same pitch, Jace.”
“Because sometimes it’s not the maze you’re in that’s trapping you. Sometimes it’s the path you decide you have to follow.”
“But if you never stop to ask whether it’s still the path you want…” “You’ll keep walking it until it stops leading you where you want it to be. Until all you feel is stuck.”
“And for the first time, the guilt I carried for staying away all those first few years didn’t feel so heavy. It gave way to something else. Something better. Pride. Pride in being there. Not missing this. In finally understanding that real genuine happiness can come even after time and distance. Even after mistakes.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2026
This has been one of my top reads so far this year! Once I started this book, I could not stop thinking about it and kept trying to find secret moments to continue to read. Cassandra knows how to pull you in and make you feel like you are a part of that whole book world! I’m actually sad this book is over!
This is the perfect second chance (and baseball!) romance book. I cried multiple times while reading this book; it was just perfectly written!
Lenny is a super relatable character. As a travel nurse, she bounces from place to place never really settling in one place for too long. Having her go through her journey and realizing what she’s doing and why and what she really wants was super powerful and really amazing to witness through the pages!
Jace is top-tier! He’s one of those quiet guys who has invisible wounds that he doesn’t share with a lot of people. But boy, if you’re in his circle, you are well taken care of! He loves hard and protects fiercely, and he’s one of those people that you know you can rely on for anything. I laughed and grinned so wide so many times during moments centered around him!
I loved the side characters in this story. Many of them we’ve come to know from previous books in this Golden City series, but I also love the new additions. I love how she represented the deaf community really well in this book.
I think my favorite part of this entire book is the connection between these characters. It felt genuine and real. It wasn’t rushed. It wasn’t smutty. The slow burn was done masterly! I’ve already shared with many people about how this book needs to be one of their next reads. It really was that good!
I also really loved how she did a dual timeline POV. I haven’t read many of them, but it really did enhance the story and built the background for these characters as they were on their run back home! I can’t wait to see where she takes us next! She’s definitely an author to keep on your list!
This is the perfect second chance (and baseball!) romance book. I cried multiple times while reading this book; it was just perfectly written!
Lenny is a super relatable character. As a travel nurse, she bounces from place to place never really settling in one place for too long. Having her go through her journey and realizing what she’s doing and why and what she really wants was super powerful and really amazing to witness through the pages!
Jace is top-tier! He’s one of those quiet guys who has invisible wounds that he doesn’t share with a lot of people. But boy, if you’re in his circle, you are well taken care of! He loves hard and protects fiercely, and he’s one of those people that you know you can rely on for anything. I laughed and grinned so wide so many times during moments centered around him!
I loved the side characters in this story. Many of them we’ve come to know from previous books in this Golden City series, but I also love the new additions. I love how she represented the deaf community really well in this book.
I think my favorite part of this entire book is the connection between these characters. It felt genuine and real. It wasn’t rushed. It wasn’t smutty. The slow burn was done masterly! I’ve already shared with many people about how this book needs to be one of their next reads. It really was that good!
I also really loved how she did a dual timeline POV. I haven’t read many of them, but it really did enhance the story and built the background for these characters as they were on their run back home! I can’t wait to see where she takes us next! She’s definitely an author to keep on your list!
Review of advance copy received from Author
-ASL Rep
-Baseball Romance
-Shortstop x ER Nurse
-Second Chance Romance
-Fated Mates
-Slow Burn
Be right back while I go cry, I can’t believe this is the end of the series. Cassandra wrote another amazing book that gave me all the feels. Lenny and Jace not only ripped my heart to pieces but truly had me falling in love with them both. Their love story is so heartbreaking and sweet all at the same time.
Oh Lenny girl. I hate how conflicted her life has been. She is such a sweet, strong, amazing girl. She never really got over Jace and it’s safe to say your heart belongs to him. I love the amazing instant connection you have with his sister as well. But she truly let fear get in your way of your happily ever after. That truly breaks my heart for her. But if fate steps in, there is no going back.
Then there is Jace, loyal to a fault, doesn’t let loose, and just is basically moving through the motions of his life. He is so nice, he loves with everything he has, and he is possessive. He never got over the heartbreak of losing Lenny. She is truly his soulmate. But he focuses on being there for his sister/family and truly being the best player he can be. His life is going amazing expect he is still missing one singular peace that is holding him back. But will he find his happy ending ?
The one thing I don’t talk about enough with this whole series is the found family aspect. Her books truly bring you such cozy vibes along with the feeling of so many of these characters protecting their own. She is amazing at making these characters feel wanted and need by their friends that they created. It’s beautiful to read!
Thank you to Casandra for allowing me to read this advanced readers copy! I’m sad this is the end of this series but I’m so excited to see what comes next!
-Baseball Romance
-Shortstop x ER Nurse
-Second Chance Romance
-Fated Mates
-Slow Burn
Be right back while I go cry, I can’t believe this is the end of the series. Cassandra wrote another amazing book that gave me all the feels. Lenny and Jace not only ripped my heart to pieces but truly had me falling in love with them both. Their love story is so heartbreaking and sweet all at the same time.
Oh Lenny girl. I hate how conflicted her life has been. She is such a sweet, strong, amazing girl. She never really got over Jace and it’s safe to say your heart belongs to him. I love the amazing instant connection you have with his sister as well. But she truly let fear get in your way of your happily ever after. That truly breaks my heart for her. But if fate steps in, there is no going back.
Then there is Jace, loyal to a fault, doesn’t let loose, and just is basically moving through the motions of his life. He is so nice, he loves with everything he has, and he is possessive. He never got over the heartbreak of losing Lenny. She is truly his soulmate. But he focuses on being there for his sister/family and truly being the best player he can be. His life is going amazing expect he is still missing one singular peace that is holding him back. But will he find his happy ending ?
The one thing I don’t talk about enough with this whole series is the found family aspect. Her books truly bring you such cozy vibes along with the feeling of so many of these characters protecting their own. She is amazing at making these characters feel wanted and need by their friends that they created. It’s beautiful to read!
Thank you to Casandra for allowing me to read this advanced readers copy! I’m sad this is the end of this series but I’m so excited to see what comes next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book so much! I was savoring every word! I didn't want it to end! I am a sucker for second chance romances and this one was just PERFECT! Jace and Lenny dated in high school and made future plans together: nursing school for Lenny and professional baseball for Jace, but she broke things off with him so he could chase his dream of playing in the MLB and getting drafted by the Golden City Gators because she was scared to leave the security of home. But then the memories of him everywhere and became too much that she couldn't stay so she became a travel nurse. When that assignment lands her in Golden City she knows that a run in with Jace is inevitable.
My heart was breaking for Jace and Lenny during the flashback scenes. They were made for each other. The yearning, the tension and chemistry between them was still there after 6 years! I laughed, I cried and I swooned over these two! The reunion between them had me giddy! Don't even get me started on the spicy scenes-these two were on fire! This is a slow burn but so worth it!
I loved the ASL representation in the book and the cochlear implant procedure was written with such care and detail. Vienna who is Jace's younger sister is deaf and I love that Lenny learned sign language to communicate with her. I also loved the side characters from Jace's teammates to Lenny's friends and family, the other series couples/characters who make an appearance and I loved revisiting Mage Hollow and the entire O'Reilly family! I want to live in Mage Hollow
This book was the perfect ending to the Golden City series. I have loved reading this entire series that Cassandra has created. I just love her writing style and the way her books and Kelli Cooke's book worlds interconnect. They are good friends and both very talented writers. I am sad to see this series come to an end but I know I will go back to read it again and again.
Thank you to Cassandra Moll for the eArc of this book. All opinions are my own.
My heart was breaking for Jace and Lenny during the flashback scenes. They were made for each other. The yearning, the tension and chemistry between them was still there after 6 years! I laughed, I cried and I swooned over these two! The reunion between them had me giddy! Don't even get me started on the spicy scenes-these two were on fire! This is a slow burn but so worth it!
I loved the ASL representation in the book and the cochlear implant procedure was written with such care and detail. Vienna who is Jace's younger sister is deaf and I love that Lenny learned sign language to communicate with her. I also loved the side characters from Jace's teammates to Lenny's friends and family, the other series couples/characters who make an appearance and I loved revisiting Mage Hollow and the entire O'Reilly family! I want to live in Mage Hollow
This book was the perfect ending to the Golden City series. I have loved reading this entire series that Cassandra has created. I just love her writing style and the way her books and Kelli Cooke's book worlds interconnect. They are good friends and both very talented writers. I am sad to see this series come to an end but I know I will go back to read it again and again.
Thank you to Cassandra Moll for the eArc of this book. All opinions are my own.
September 23, 2026
I can't believe this was the last standalone in the series. And I honestly felt a pang of sadness turning that last page. This whole series have taken me through all the emotions, and to have been able to follow all these amazing characters and their lives. It was so beautifully knitted together in the final book too.
If you want a book with tension, the one that fills you up so good that you forget the time and where you are cause you need to know what will happen. If you want to feel that yearning, where it's so powerful that your own heart starts to race in certain scenes, then I without doubt recommend you this book.
Quotes I really like:
"Like a death you don't see coming where the moments together flash before your mind, and all you can picture is what you didn't say - didn't do."
"Some things deserve more time" (I love how she didn't want to run on the leaves during the fall 🍁)
"The trick wasn't staying in the same place. It was holding on anyway" (The otters are very wise)
Also, he says 'Mine'. *getting weak in the knees*
The way Cassandra have been able to write and represent ASL in this book have blown my mind. Reading and writing is about communication, when we read a love story it's all about communication, but reading about this character and how ASL is represented made this book even better. It's well done, we get to see the scary parts, the love, and how easy it can be to be misunderstood/not understood at all. You are not your hearing, and that is so important.
I've been blessed with having been given this book as an ARC, and this is my honest review. Thank you so much Cassandra for having trusted me with your books ever since I found you when The shots against us came out, and I had no idea how much I would love the world you have created. I thank you for that.
If you want a book with tension, the one that fills you up so good that you forget the time and where you are cause you need to know what will happen. If you want to feel that yearning, where it's so powerful that your own heart starts to race in certain scenes, then I without doubt recommend you this book.
Quotes I really like:
"Like a death you don't see coming where the moments together flash before your mind, and all you can picture is what you didn't say - didn't do."
"Some things deserve more time" (I love how she didn't want to run on the leaves during the fall 🍁)
"The trick wasn't staying in the same place. It was holding on anyway" (The otters are very wise)
Also, he says 'Mine'. *getting weak in the knees*
The way Cassandra have been able to write and represent ASL in this book have blown my mind. Reading and writing is about communication, when we read a love story it's all about communication, but reading about this character and how ASL is represented made this book even better. It's well done, we get to see the scary parts, the love, and how easy it can be to be misunderstood/not understood at all. You are not your hearing, and that is so important.
I've been blessed with having been given this book as an ARC, and this is my honest review. Thank you so much Cassandra for having trusted me with your books ever since I found you when The shots against us came out, and I had no idea how much I would love the world you have created. I thank you for that.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Run Back Home is book 4 in the Golden City series.
This book was a dual timeline. Going back to their teenage years before going to University/College and present day.
Quiet Jace Holloway falls for Lenora (Lenny) O’Reilly hard and fast as a teenage boy. He had dreams of making the MLB after college and that Lenny was going to join him at the same college the following year. However Lenny never went, she never explained herself to him and left him heartbroken.
Six years later Jace is living his dream playing for the MLB team in Golden City, being an active part of his little(deaf) sister’s life, but still misses what could have been.
Lenny is now working as a travel nurse, moving from city to city, to stay away from her hometown where she felt suffocated by her family but unable to be there without Jace. Having recently moved to Golden City she bumps into Jace in the park. Both shocked at their meet cute and then the next one and the one after. It seems they are destined to keep crossing paths.
The Run Back Home highlights the importance of speaking your truth and being honest with yourself and those you care about.
As a woman in her 50’s . I struggled a bit with the chapters focussing on their teenage years. I would have preferred reading more about their present day lives and relationships.
I was a little confused by Lenny’s family dynamics. It seemed like she had a reasonably good relationship with her immediate family yet she also felt they were too much, a little invasive and suffocating, but then chose to spend a fair amount of time with them.
Although not my favourite of the series (that would be book 2 or 3, I can’t decide!) it was still an enjoyable read.
This book was a dual timeline. Going back to their teenage years before going to University/College and present day.
Quiet Jace Holloway falls for Lenora (Lenny) O’Reilly hard and fast as a teenage boy. He had dreams of making the MLB after college and that Lenny was going to join him at the same college the following year. However Lenny never went, she never explained herself to him and left him heartbroken.
Six years later Jace is living his dream playing for the MLB team in Golden City, being an active part of his little(deaf) sister’s life, but still misses what could have been.
Lenny is now working as a travel nurse, moving from city to city, to stay away from her hometown where she felt suffocated by her family but unable to be there without Jace. Having recently moved to Golden City she bumps into Jace in the park. Both shocked at their meet cute and then the next one and the one after. It seems they are destined to keep crossing paths.
The Run Back Home highlights the importance of speaking your truth and being honest with yourself and those you care about.
As a woman in her 50’s . I struggled a bit with the chapters focussing on their teenage years. I would have preferred reading more about their present day lives and relationships.
I was a little confused by Lenny’s family dynamics. It seemed like she had a reasonably good relationship with her immediate family yet she also felt they were too much, a little invasive and suffocating, but then chose to spend a fair amount of time with them.
Although not my favourite of the series (that would be book 2 or 3, I can’t decide!) it was still an enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🅰🆁🅲 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐮𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐚 𝐌𝐨𝐥𝐥
"𝑰 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒎𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔... 𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏."
Some books feel like a warm hug from beginning to end, and The Run Back Home was exactly that for me🥹❤️
Returning to The Golden City for Jace and Lenny’s story felt like coming home one last time. There’s something so special about two people who have loved each other in their own way for so long, getting the chance to find their way back to each other. No matter how much time has passed or how much life has changed them, there’s still that undeniable feeling of "𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦" vibe.
As the final book in The Golden City Series, this was such a beautiful way to close the door on a city I’ve grown so attached to. And honestly? I’m not emotionally prepared to say goodbye😭 I’m going to miss this little world and the feeling these books gave me.
One of my favorite parts was Jace’s relationship with his deaf sister. The ASL representation was beautifully written into the story, and I loved how her presence brought out such a tender, softer side of the characters around her. Their dynamic added so much heart and warmth, and it was one of those elements that made the story feel even more meaningful and what stayed with me most is the reminder that people grow, life changes, and sometimes our paths take us places we never expected. But some connections have a way of finding their way back to us.
"𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒂 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖."
A wholesome, heartwarming second-chance romance that left me smiling, a little emotional, and very much not ready to leave The Golden City behind.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐮𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐚 𝐌𝐨𝐥𝐥
"𝑰 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒎𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔... 𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏."
Some books feel like a warm hug from beginning to end, and The Run Back Home was exactly that for me🥹❤️
Returning to The Golden City for Jace and Lenny’s story felt like coming home one last time. There’s something so special about two people who have loved each other in their own way for so long, getting the chance to find their way back to each other. No matter how much time has passed or how much life has changed them, there’s still that undeniable feeling of "𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦" vibe.
As the final book in The Golden City Series, this was such a beautiful way to close the door on a city I’ve grown so attached to. And honestly? I’m not emotionally prepared to say goodbye😭 I’m going to miss this little world and the feeling these books gave me.
One of my favorite parts was Jace’s relationship with his deaf sister. The ASL representation was beautifully written into the story, and I loved how her presence brought out such a tender, softer side of the characters around her. Their dynamic added so much heart and warmth, and it was one of those elements that made the story feel even more meaningful and what stayed with me most is the reminder that people grow, life changes, and sometimes our paths take us places we never expected. But some connections have a way of finding their way back to us.
"𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒂 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖."
A wholesome, heartwarming second-chance romance that left me smiling, a little emotional, and very much not ready to leave The Golden City behind.
October 5, 2026
I loved Jace and Lenny. Six years apart, a lot of hurt between them, and feelings that clearly never went away. Second-chance romance can be hit or miss for me, but this one worked. The dual timeline gave us enough of their past to understand why they fell apart and why finding their way back mattered so much.
Lenny’s story really got me. She’s spent so trying to figure out where she belongs, I know all too well to her in that regard. The feeling that home isn’t always an address its so often a feeling or it’s the people who make you feel secure and at peace is the true meaning of home. I think Lenny really struggled with this and I think that is because of her family being that in your face overbearing family. This at times made Lenny a frustrating character because she had such an issue getting out of her own way.
Jace on the other hand, had my heart, and I loved that there was more to the story than just their relationship. The family dynamics, Vienna, and the ASL/deaf representation added so much. I also loved the baseball aspect without it taking over the entire story.
It had love, regret, family, second chances, and just enough heartbreak before putting my feelings back together. The feeling of not home not being a physical place but a feeling of belonging really hits home for me because it took me so long to realize that in my own life so the connection between my life and that of the characters really sets this book apart for me because finding that feeling of home is so difficult at times. Such a feel good read that had me all in my feels in the best possible way!!!
Cassandra Moll has officially become an author I can’t wait to read more from. I’m already ready for the next book.
Lenny’s story really got me. She’s spent so trying to figure out where she belongs, I know all too well to her in that regard. The feeling that home isn’t always an address its so often a feeling or it’s the people who make you feel secure and at peace is the true meaning of home. I think Lenny really struggled with this and I think that is because of her family being that in your face overbearing family. This at times made Lenny a frustrating character because she had such an issue getting out of her own way.
Jace on the other hand, had my heart, and I loved that there was more to the story than just their relationship. The family dynamics, Vienna, and the ASL/deaf representation added so much. I also loved the baseball aspect without it taking over the entire story.
It had love, regret, family, second chances, and just enough heartbreak before putting my feelings back together. The feeling of not home not being a physical place but a feeling of belonging really hits home for me because it took me so long to realize that in my own life so the connection between my life and that of the characters really sets this book apart for me because finding that feeling of home is so difficult at times. Such a feel good read that had me all in my feels in the best possible way!!!
Cassandra Moll has officially become an author I can’t wait to read more from. I’m already ready for the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Thank you to the author, Cassandra Moll for letting me be part of ARC Team!*
I loved every single moment of this book; the characters, the story, the setting. I’m so glad that I got the chance to read this book. I have a feeling this will be the book I re-read in the future. The Run Back Home is the second book I've read by Cassandra and, so far, my favorite. I haven't read the first two books in the Golden City series, and now that I've read the last one, I'm going to check out the others. One of my favorites is the found-family aspect; it's so heartwarming to see how everyone looks out for one another. That's why it's impossible to have a favorite character; you can't help but fall in love with all of them. It reminds me so much of my best friends, who became like family to me.
Lenny and Jace : You can see that those two belong together from the start. Their story was both heartbreaking and heartwarming, and I found myself reading late into the night because I needed to know what happened. I could tell that Lenny’s feelings for Jace never faded; just the way that she acted around him. I loved the way that Cassandra portrayed their relationship; it was emotional at times, but also realistic. I was so invested in their relationship, rooting for them all the way through.
I love the way Cassandra portrayed deaf awareness and Vienna’s journey to get the implant. I can’t even begin to imagine how she must feel, but the descriptions were phenomenal, so I felt as if I could. I have a deaf friend, so I loved that it was featured in this book. I also loved the relationship that Jace had with his sister, and Lenny too; it had me smiling on multiple occasions. In general; if I could give this book more than five stars, I would. Such a beautiful, inspirational book.
I loved every single moment of this book; the characters, the story, the setting. I’m so glad that I got the chance to read this book. I have a feeling this will be the book I re-read in the future. The Run Back Home is the second book I've read by Cassandra and, so far, my favorite. I haven't read the first two books in the Golden City series, and now that I've read the last one, I'm going to check out the others. One of my favorites is the found-family aspect; it's so heartwarming to see how everyone looks out for one another. That's why it's impossible to have a favorite character; you can't help but fall in love with all of them. It reminds me so much of my best friends, who became like family to me.
Lenny and Jace : You can see that those two belong together from the start. Their story was both heartbreaking and heartwarming, and I found myself reading late into the night because I needed to know what happened. I could tell that Lenny’s feelings for Jace never faded; just the way that she acted around him. I loved the way that Cassandra portrayed their relationship; it was emotional at times, but also realistic. I was so invested in their relationship, rooting for them all the way through.
I love the way Cassandra portrayed deaf awareness and Vienna’s journey to get the implant. I can’t even begin to imagine how she must feel, but the descriptions were phenomenal, so I felt as if I could. I have a deaf friend, so I loved that it was featured in this book. I also loved the relationship that Jace had with his sister, and Lenny too; it had me smiling on multiple occasions. In general; if I could give this book more than five stars, I would. Such a beautiful, inspirational book.
September 8, 2026
Advance copy review (provided by Author)
Rating: 2.5 / 3 stars
I really wanted to love this book as much as the first installment in the series, but unfortunately, it was almost a DNF for me. While I enjoyed the male lead, the female protagonist and her surrounding family dynamics missed the mark.
Here are the key reasons for my rating:
1. The Backstory: The initial teenage breakup felt incredibly weak. I kept waiting for a solid, impactful reason to justify it, but the ultimate reveal was highly disappointing.
2.The Timeline: Too much of the book focuses on their teenage years. As someone who isn't a fan of YA romance, I wanted far more time spent building their connection in the present day.
3. The Family Dynamics: The heroine's family felt invasive and baffling. I couldn't wrap my head around how she felt simultaneously trapped and comfortable by them. The cozy small-town scenes fell flat, and the overcrowded cast of side characters made it hard to care about any of them.
4. The Romance Progression: The constant "accidental" run-ins felt forced. Because they were both still deeply in love before even officially reuniting, it erased any sense of a satisfying slow burn.
5. The Conflict: They treated her upcoming 3-month mission like a permanent, insurmountable obstacle rather than a temporary hurdle. Thinking about breaking up over a 12-week separation felt incredibly unrealistic.
Ultimately, it was a mixed bag. I liked the hero, but the combination of an frustrating heroine, confusing family drama, and weak stakes held this one back.
Rating: 2.5 / 3 stars
I really wanted to love this book as much as the first installment in the series, but unfortunately, it was almost a DNF for me. While I enjoyed the male lead, the female protagonist and her surrounding family dynamics missed the mark.
Here are the key reasons for my rating:
1. The Backstory: The initial teenage breakup felt incredibly weak. I kept waiting for a solid, impactful reason to justify it, but the ultimate reveal was highly disappointing.
2.The Timeline: Too much of the book focuses on their teenage years. As someone who isn't a fan of YA romance, I wanted far more time spent building their connection in the present day.
3. The Family Dynamics: The heroine's family felt invasive and baffling. I couldn't wrap my head around how she felt simultaneously trapped and comfortable by them. The cozy small-town scenes fell flat, and the overcrowded cast of side characters made it hard to care about any of them.
4. The Romance Progression: The constant "accidental" run-ins felt forced. Because they were both still deeply in love before even officially reuniting, it erased any sense of a satisfying slow burn.
5. The Conflict: They treated her upcoming 3-month mission like a permanent, insurmountable obstacle rather than a temporary hurdle. Thinking about breaking up over a 12-week separation felt incredibly unrealistic.
Ultimately, it was a mixed bag. I liked the hero, but the combination of an frustrating heroine, confusing family drama, and weak stakes held this one back.
September 23, 2026
Review:
⚾The Run Back Home⚾
Golden City #4
By Cassandra Moll
⚾ Baseball Romance
⚾ Sports Romance
⚾ Second Chance Romance
⭐ 5/5
Jace and Lenora
The second chance romance follows Lenora and Jace. It is the fourth book in this series and is a really sweet and highly emotional one.
When not only see them as in today, but also their younger selves. How they met, fell in love and got broken hearts.
Lenora has a moving life with being a traveling nurse and Jace became a MLB baseball player.
But now, six years later, when they come face to face again, mature, things are still torn between hurt and connection.
Jace no longer has to consider what he wants, he has a very strong and tight bond with his little six year old sister whom he not only met later than should have and who is also deaf.
His life is divided between his career and being there for little Vienna.
Lenny has learned a lot about Jace’s life, more than he knew. SoLenny and Vienna can connect on a level he never saw coming.
But with them becoming closer again, choices have to be made too. And this time hopefully with a lot more communication.
Seeing them falling in love again and trying to find a life that fits for both was amazing and how they made room for the little one too.
But first Jace has to let go of all the anger and hurt Lenora caused him, and Lenny has to learn to give him her heart.
A slow burn love story with wonderful side characters as well as relatable main characters.
Who all deserved their happy end.
⚾The Run Back Home⚾
Golden City #4
By Cassandra Moll
⚾ Baseball Romance
⚾ Sports Romance
⚾ Second Chance Romance
⭐ 5/5
Jace and Lenora
The second chance romance follows Lenora and Jace. It is the fourth book in this series and is a really sweet and highly emotional one.
When not only see them as in today, but also their younger selves. How they met, fell in love and got broken hearts.
Lenora has a moving life with being a traveling nurse and Jace became a MLB baseball player.
But now, six years later, when they come face to face again, mature, things are still torn between hurt and connection.
Jace no longer has to consider what he wants, he has a very strong and tight bond with his little six year old sister whom he not only met later than should have and who is also deaf.
His life is divided between his career and being there for little Vienna.
Lenny has learned a lot about Jace’s life, more than he knew. SoLenny and Vienna can connect on a level he never saw coming.
But with them becoming closer again, choices have to be made too. And this time hopefully with a lot more communication.
Seeing them falling in love again and trying to find a life that fits for both was amazing and how they made room for the little one too.
But first Jace has to let go of all the anger and hurt Lenora caused him, and Lenny has to learn to give him her heart.
A slow burn love story with wonderful side characters as well as relatable main characters.
Who all deserved their happy end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Jace Holloway goes to college he counts down the days until his girlfriend Lenora “Lenny” O’Reilly joins him on campus but when the time comes she can’t stand the thought of leaving her family and the only home she’s ever known. She’s afraid of not being able to find herself in a place that only exists because of him. So she becomes a travel nurse, never staying in one place for too long.
When she ends up in Golden City she knows there’s a chance she could run into him. But what she didn’t expect was to live in the building by his.
She never moved on from him after their relationship ended. He wants to remind her of everything she walked away from but he can’t seem to bring himself to. He just wants her close like she was always meant to be. This is one of those “If it’s meant to be it will come back to you” kind of stories and it gave me all the feels.
Lenny learns that what she thought she couldn’t handle is the one thing that feels like home now.
I loved that when it came right down to it Jace was willing to put all of his heartache from the past six years aside and let Lenny back in. Even if it meant he might get his heart broken again. Lenny learned that the path she thought she was meant for isn’t the one she wants and now there’s nothing to run away from anymore.
Sometimes the biggest adventure in our life is the one that brings us right back where we started.
When she ends up in Golden City she knows there’s a chance she could run into him. But what she didn’t expect was to live in the building by his.
She never moved on from him after their relationship ended. He wants to remind her of everything she walked away from but he can’t seem to bring himself to. He just wants her close like she was always meant to be. This is one of those “If it’s meant to be it will come back to you” kind of stories and it gave me all the feels.
Lenny learns that what she thought she couldn’t handle is the one thing that feels like home now.
I loved that when it came right down to it Jace was willing to put all of his heartache from the past six years aside and let Lenny back in. Even if it meant he might get his heart broken again. Lenny learned that the path she thought she was meant for isn’t the one she wants and now there’s nothing to run away from anymore.
Sometimes the biggest adventure in our life is the one that brings us right back where we started.
September 27, 2026
THE RUN BACK HOME BY CASSANDRA MOLL
4/5 STARS 3/5 SPICE. 5/5 TENSION
First, thank you to Cassandra Moll for the opportunity to read an ARC.
One last trip to Golden City, one last shot at love.
It's here, the final book in the Golden City Series and you're not going to want to miss this one.
It's time to go back to where it all started, where Nora first met Jace, when they were both just high school students with big dreams.
In this final chapter of Golden City, there is a second chance at love on the line, can old heartbreaks heal? can you forgive someone for breaking your heart?
Lenny and Jace were High School sweethearts, but when plans for the future are being discussed things start to change, Jace is an amazing baseball player but Lenny has plans for herself...the last thing she wants to do if feel like she's losing herself in him or putting her dreams and goals aside.
Years later and Lenny is a travel nurse, the girl who never wanted to leave home now travels for a living, but when she finds out her next assignment is in Golden City everything changes...Some things. However, never change
This book was absolutely adorable, the yearning, the banter, the ability for these characters to pick back up where they left off. The COMMUNICATION is everything. the story line is split into two time lines and the way things unravel feels like a master piece.
Sometimes The Run Back Home leads to a person not a place...
4/5 STARS 3/5 SPICE. 5/5 TENSION
First, thank you to Cassandra Moll for the opportunity to read an ARC.
One last trip to Golden City, one last shot at love.
It's here, the final book in the Golden City Series and you're not going to want to miss this one.
It's time to go back to where it all started, where Nora first met Jace, when they were both just high school students with big dreams.
In this final chapter of Golden City, there is a second chance at love on the line, can old heartbreaks heal? can you forgive someone for breaking your heart?
Lenny and Jace were High School sweethearts, but when plans for the future are being discussed things start to change, Jace is an amazing baseball player but Lenny has plans for herself...the last thing she wants to do if feel like she's losing herself in him or putting her dreams and goals aside.
Years later and Lenny is a travel nurse, the girl who never wanted to leave home now travels for a living, but when she finds out her next assignment is in Golden City everything changes...Some things. However, never change
This book was absolutely adorable, the yearning, the banter, the ability for these characters to pick back up where they left off. The COMMUNICATION is everything. the story line is split into two time lines and the way things unravel feels like a master piece.
Sometimes The Run Back Home leads to a person not a place...
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Run Back Home was the perfect ending to the Golden City series.
Jace and Lenny's story was equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking. They were each other's future once, but life took them in different directions. Watching them find their way back to each other six years later was emotional, beautiful, and at times downright painful.
I especially loved how deafness and cochlear implant discussions were woven into the story. It felt authentic, meaningful, and handled with so much care and respect.
The chemistry between Jace and Lenny never faded, and the flashbacks made me feel completely invested in both of them. There were plenty of tears, plenty of laughs, and more than enough swoon-worthy moments.
"I've missed you," Jace whispers.
"All I've done is miss you, Jace," Lenny says.
COME ON, CASSANDRA!!!
And let's not forget the jersey scene... Jace knew exactly what he was doing. Then Chapter 33 completely wrecked me in the best way.
The side characters were wonderful, especially Vienna, who absolutely stole my heart. Getting to revisit familiar faces made saying goodbye to Golden City even harder. I didn't want it to end
This story is a beautiful reminder that people grow, life changes, and sometimes love still finds its way home. I'm so sad this series is over, but I'll definitely be running back to Golden City again and again. I can't wait to see where we go from here.
Thank you, Cassandra for allowing me to read these amazing stories before they are out in the wild :)
Jace and Lenny's story was equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking. They were each other's future once, but life took them in different directions. Watching them find their way back to each other six years later was emotional, beautiful, and at times downright painful.
I especially loved how deafness and cochlear implant discussions were woven into the story. It felt authentic, meaningful, and handled with so much care and respect.
The chemistry between Jace and Lenny never faded, and the flashbacks made me feel completely invested in both of them. There were plenty of tears, plenty of laughs, and more than enough swoon-worthy moments.
"I've missed you," Jace whispers.
"All I've done is miss you, Jace," Lenny says.
COME ON, CASSANDRA!!!
And let's not forget the jersey scene... Jace knew exactly what he was doing. Then Chapter 33 completely wrecked me in the best way.
The side characters were wonderful, especially Vienna, who absolutely stole my heart. Getting to revisit familiar faces made saying goodbye to Golden City even harder. I didn't want it to end
This story is a beautiful reminder that people grow, life changes, and sometimes love still finds its way home. I'm so sad this series is over, but I'll definitely be running back to Golden City again and again. I can't wait to see where we go from here.
Thank you, Cassandra for allowing me to read these amazing stories before they are out in the wild :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am so sad the Golden City series is completed, they were such fun reads! This book was a wonderfully happy ending to the series.
You will enjoy this book immensely if you are a fan of
-Slow Burn
-Second Chance Romances
-Dual POV and timeline
-Sports Romances
-Disability Representation
Shoutout for the deaf awareness in this book, it was done with knowledge and careful thought. It was a nice second chance romance featuring baseball. The storyline was told in the past and present- focusing on why the relationship failed when they were younger and how it was lining up with the present. I feel like it was an accurate representation of teenage angst, young love, and how people change and grow and can find their way back to each other.
The only reason I did not rate this 5 stars was:
-A lot of the timeline was focused on high school years, and I am no longer into YA
-The Family Dynamics- her side of the family had a lot of conflicting point of views and almost seemed to have bullied her into staying (I loved Jace's sister and mom!)
-The Conflict: I do feel like it fell a little flat with Lenny giving up on her dream of Alaska (I did like she did get to visit in the end!) but a 3 month separation is not that long of a time- especially in comparison to how many away game stretches there are for baseball!
You will enjoy this book immensely if you are a fan of
-Slow Burn
-Second Chance Romances
-Dual POV and timeline
-Sports Romances
-Disability Representation
Shoutout for the deaf awareness in this book, it was done with knowledge and careful thought. It was a nice second chance romance featuring baseball. The storyline was told in the past and present- focusing on why the relationship failed when they were younger and how it was lining up with the present. I feel like it was an accurate representation of teenage angst, young love, and how people change and grow and can find their way back to each other.
The only reason I did not rate this 5 stars was:
-A lot of the timeline was focused on high school years, and I am no longer into YA
-The Family Dynamics- her side of the family had a lot of conflicting point of views and almost seemed to have bullied her into staying (I loved Jace's sister and mom!)
-The Conflict: I do feel like it fell a little flat with Lenny giving up on her dream of Alaska (I did like she did get to visit in the end!) but a 3 month separation is not that long of a time- especially in comparison to how many away game stretches there are for baseball!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don't know why I waited so long to pick up a Cassandra Moll book! The Run Back Home is book #4 in the Golden City series, featuring Lenora, an ER travel nurse, and Jace, a professional baseball player. This is a second chance, big city/small town, disability representation, sport romance that really pulls on the heartstrings.
I loved the flashbacks that show how Lenny and Jace's relationship initiated, which really shed light onto their unexpected reunion when Lenny moves back to Golden City for a job. These two truly are fated, as every circumstance throws them back together, whether they want it or not. You can see the depth of emotion between the two, the longing is absolutely there. Cassandra does a great job building the tension, and when it breaks, whew! The spicy is spicy.
This absolutely could be a deal-breaker of a miscommunication trope, but Cassandra does an amazing job having each character explore their emotions. By the end you're kicking your feet in glee as they realize what you've known all along, Lenny and Jace are truly meant for each other.
I love Jace's relationship with Vienna, his deaf little sister. Her disability is portrayed as her strength, which is truly beautiful.
Thank you to Cassandra Moll for allowing me to be a part of her ARC team - I loved this book and can't wait to read her others!
I loved the flashbacks that show how Lenny and Jace's relationship initiated, which really shed light onto their unexpected reunion when Lenny moves back to Golden City for a job. These two truly are fated, as every circumstance throws them back together, whether they want it or not. You can see the depth of emotion between the two, the longing is absolutely there. Cassandra does a great job building the tension, and when it breaks, whew! The spicy is spicy.
This absolutely could be a deal-breaker of a miscommunication trope, but Cassandra does an amazing job having each character explore their emotions. By the end you're kicking your feet in glee as they realize what you've known all along, Lenny and Jace are truly meant for each other.
I love Jace's relationship with Vienna, his deaf little sister. Her disability is portrayed as her strength, which is truly beautiful.
Thank you to Cassandra Moll for allowing me to be a part of her ARC team - I loved this book and can't wait to read her others!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was provided to me as an advanced reader copy and my review is entirely voluntary. My thoughts, opinions, and comments are all my own!
We follow Lenny (Lenora), a travel horse, and Jace, a MLB player, as they stumble across each other years after their relationship had ended. And we certainly feel the tension when they first bump into each other again.
The one thing I truly appreciated about this story was that we were given glimpses of the past sprinkled throughout the story. Chapters were added that painted the picture as to what exactly happened in the past and why Jace was initially quite cold and standoff-ish when seeing Lenny.
I loved how they slowly worked through their emotions, confusion, heartbreak, fears, and all things that were on their mind. We got to watch them both grow from the past and work together towards a better future, one which had them in each other’s lives again, while also considering how to maneuver their careers and passions. It was a perfect second chance situation and I was so happy at the end.
The story was sweet, heartfelt, tugged at the heartstrings, and truly made me fall in love with both characters. Oh, and we can’t forget about Jace’s deaf sister, Vienna, who was the sweetest little girl. I absolutely adored her and loved being able to read about her as well.
4.25/5⭐️
We follow Lenny (Lenora), a travel horse, and Jace, a MLB player, as they stumble across each other years after their relationship had ended. And we certainly feel the tension when they first bump into each other again.
The one thing I truly appreciated about this story was that we were given glimpses of the past sprinkled throughout the story. Chapters were added that painted the picture as to what exactly happened in the past and why Jace was initially quite cold and standoff-ish when seeing Lenny.
I loved how they slowly worked through their emotions, confusion, heartbreak, fears, and all things that were on their mind. We got to watch them both grow from the past and work together towards a better future, one which had them in each other’s lives again, while also considering how to maneuver their careers and passions. It was a perfect second chance situation and I was so happy at the end.
The story was sweet, heartfelt, tugged at the heartstrings, and truly made me fall in love with both characters. Oh, and we can’t forget about Jace’s deaf sister, Vienna, who was the sweetest little girl. I absolutely adored her and loved being able to read about her as well.
4.25/5⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this story! Jace and Lenny’s story was such a beautiful second chance romance.
Lenny was so relatable to me. She was young and in love with Jace, but also trying to live up to what everyone else expected from her. She really believed that in order for both of them to follow their dreams, she had to leave. Even though they were so in love, she thought walking away was the right thing to do at the time. I loved seeing her come back years later and start to realize that maybe what she thought she was supposed to want wasn’t actually what she wanted at all.
I also loved her friendship with Dylan. She was hilarious and brought some great comic relief to the story.
Jace’s relationship with his younger sister Vienna was another favorite part for me. Vienna is deaf, and their relationship was so sweet. I loved seeing how supportive Jace was of her, and I really liked the deaf and ASL representation throughout the book.
There were plenty of sweet and spicy moments, but I think what I liked most was the heart behind the story. Sometimes you have to grow up and figure yourself out before you realize where you really want to be.
Thank you so much to Cassandra Moll for the opportunity to ARC read The Run Back Home!
Lenny was so relatable to me. She was young and in love with Jace, but also trying to live up to what everyone else expected from her. She really believed that in order for both of them to follow their dreams, she had to leave. Even though they were so in love, she thought walking away was the right thing to do at the time. I loved seeing her come back years later and start to realize that maybe what she thought she was supposed to want wasn’t actually what she wanted at all.
I also loved her friendship with Dylan. She was hilarious and brought some great comic relief to the story.
Jace’s relationship with his younger sister Vienna was another favorite part for me. Vienna is deaf, and their relationship was so sweet. I loved seeing how supportive Jace was of her, and I really liked the deaf and ASL representation throughout the book.
There were plenty of sweet and spicy moments, but I think what I liked most was the heart behind the story. Sometimes you have to grow up and figure yourself out before you realize where you really want to be.
Thank you so much to Cassandra Moll for the opportunity to ARC read The Run Back Home!
September 19, 2026
ARC received from author for review. Thank you Cassandra Moll for this chance!
I absolutely adored this book. This was my first book by Cassandra Moll and i immediately added the other books in this series to my TBR! This is a small town second chance romance which are two of my favorite tropes!
Lenny is a traveling nurse and Jace is a pro baseball player. They fell in love in high school and thought they were going to go the distance. But plans changed. Hearts got hurt. Lenny comes back to the area for work and runs into Jace, literally. Sweet! The tension is high at first but we see their journey together and I loved watching them fall for each other again!
Vienna and Jace’s sibling relationship really touched me! The way he takes care of her is precious! And walking Vienna’s journey to getting an implant really hit home for me. Her nerves, the anxiety, the emotions…I know EXACTLY how she felt as I got a similar implant seven months ago. The anticipation and tears of joy for hearing something the first time brought tears to my eyes! Cassandra did an excellent job of representing the Deaf in this book!
Five stars for this book!
I absolutely adored this book. This was my first book by Cassandra Moll and i immediately added the other books in this series to my TBR! This is a small town second chance romance which are two of my favorite tropes!
Lenny is a traveling nurse and Jace is a pro baseball player. They fell in love in high school and thought they were going to go the distance. But plans changed. Hearts got hurt. Lenny comes back to the area for work and runs into Jace, literally. Sweet! The tension is high at first but we see their journey together and I loved watching them fall for each other again!
Vienna and Jace’s sibling relationship really touched me! The way he takes care of her is precious! And walking Vienna’s journey to getting an implant really hit home for me. Her nerves, the anxiety, the emotions…I know EXACTLY how she felt as I got a similar implant seven months ago. The anticipation and tears of joy for hearing something the first time brought tears to my eyes! Cassandra did an excellent job of representing the Deaf in this book!
Five stars for this book!
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