Capsules & Crushes

by Amanda Tero Matthews

Sometimes the greatest treasure is a forgotten crush.

After a storm reveals Everwild Island's school time capsule years ahead of schedule, Devon uncovers more than old memories.

Buried among the keepsakes is a note about a childhood crush and a hopeful prediction for the future.

When he realizes the girl behind the note is standing right in front of him, he has one chance to change both of their futures.

Capsules & Crushes is a sweet, clean Christian beach romance you can read in five minutes.

Genres: Contemporary, Christian, Romance, Clean Romance

ebook

Published July 2, 2026

About the author

Amanda Tero loves getting lost in the world of fiction. If she’s not reading or listening to audiobooks, then she’s working on her own stories and worlds.

She writes YA Christian fiction under Amanda Tero (best known for A Strand of Hope and Tales of Faith), clean Christian beach romances under Amanda Tero Matthews (coming in 2026), and co-authors Christian cozy mysteries under Chelsea Michelle (2025 Selah Awards finalist, Transactions We Expose).

Find free stories & subscriber to her newsletter at amandatero.com/newsletter

Also, follow her on Instagram @amandaterobooks

Reviews

[Amanda Matthews]

The flash fiction has now become a novella! Find it on Amazon!

[Alissa Riggs]

Cute little story!
Edit: Loved the new novella version :)

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee)]

Very cute novella. Liked the metal detecting and the dog scenes. Felt bad for Devon with his ex situation and also for Makayla who has had a crush on Devon for over a decade. Of course we get a happy ending and it was adorably cute! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Ann♥♪♪♪♪]

Good, fun beach read - even if you're not at the beach while reading it! I love the ocean, beautiful sand, sunshine, shells, summer, reading and romance so, of course, I like to read books with those elements! Enjoyed this nice, clean short story. It was the perfect length in a busy day and my sib and I taking about a five minute break to read. The main male and female characters...read the rest of my review on my blog Hardy and Drew Mysteries and more!

“This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:24

[Jannia González]

If you include a dog in your story. I would read it lol.

What a great small story. I love how Amanda Tero writes.

I received thankfully this copy for free in her newsletter. I wasn't forced to review it, and all the comments are truly only my own.

Flash fiction version reread

Oh my gosh! Devon and M are sooooo cute. I am so happy I reread it. I'll read the longer version now. 😍😍

Novella version read

This is not as cute as the flash fiction version, but it's real. Man, it really brought some good relationship topics afloat, and I love it for what it did.

We could see more about Lucky, and I loved it, and I can identify with dogs scaping. Mine do the same thing.

Favorite quote
“There are red flags in guys, but there are just human flags, too. If his life is pointed toward Christ, that’s a green flag, even if there are a few human flags visible too.”

[Kristi W - Book Love By Kristi]

“Makayla, I love you. I know beyond a doubt that you make me a better man, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”

This sweet novella, from the Sweethearts on Everwild series, is a faith-filled beach read. It has best friend’s brother, an old crush, a broken heart, and an unexpected romance.

Devon is charming, gentle and healing. I loved his determination to not think about his ex-fiancé. I enjoyed his metal detecting adventures, especially finding the time capsule. And the award for best side character goes to Lucky! 🦮 Such a delightful puppy. I loved Devon’s realization of where his heart had erred and how he reconciled with God. I loved his determination to heal and pursue Makayla. Makayla is sunny, witty, and smitten. I loved how she tried to hide her interest in Devon and knowledge of his metal detecting. I loved that she was honest with him and stood up for her heart. I loved that she realized her error in thinking and accepted Devon’s healing human heart. Such a sweet romance and a delightful epilogue!

A few more quotes:
🪏 I had heard it was better to get a dog than a rebound girlfriend, so Lucky it was. 🪏

“You good with hanging out while I fix the detector? It’s pretty boring stuff.” “I can do boring.” I patted the large purse I lugged everywhere. “I brought a book.” A wide smile spread across his face. “Of course you did.”

“If this is taking it slowly, I’m all in,” I said. She swatted my arm. “Be serious.” “I am.” I leaned in for another kiss, but she put her finger to my lips. “Slowly.” I gave her a crooked grin. “We’ll see about that.”

This complimentary copy was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.

[Clean Book Hoarders]

I loved being back on Everwild Island for this fun novella! Devon uncovers their high school time capsule and finds more than he expected. This is a really cute, Christian romance!

I received an ARC copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts.

[Tara Savanna]

I read the original flash fiction version and wanted more!

This longer version is such a super-cute, short read packed with a full story!

I absolutely love that this book was written in a way where you don't feel like you've missed anything. It's not a glimpse or a snippet, you get the whole story in a fun, short read. I love the themes and difficulties that are dealt with in this little book, very realistic.

A great little addition to the Everwild series!

[Trudy Cordle]

Such a good tease!! I'd really like it to be much longer!! I think this was even better the second time! Looking forward to the next book in the series, Flip Flops and Family Friends!!

[Beverly]

Sweet, quick read. To coincidental
But I do appreciate the next free book!

[Katja Labonté]

3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). I read the original flash fiction story, so I was intrigued about how the author would flesh it out into a full novella. It was an interesting little romance; I enjoyed seeing Everwild again, and I also liked both Makayla's struggles as a teacher and Devon's as a content creator. The message was powerful, too.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*

[Caren | Hopefulwords]

I received a complimentary advance copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.

Such a fun plot! What if your high school crush discovers you liked him back then? And the feelings may be lingering… Let’s just say the moment shortly after the meet (again) cute, the one on the beach, had me smiling.

Overall, a few things stood out to me. One thing that I appreciate is how this author’s stories (this is the second one that I’ve read) shows that we are not always at our best. We fail, big time, but growth is in recognizing that and taking steps to address the issue. Another thing was how we have to be willing to let go of our own ideas — it’s so easy to think, why wouldn’t this be His will? And, lastly, how our own ideas can convince us that we know someone when we don’t. Not really.

I’m quietly hoping there will be a Pride & Prejudice inspired story that takes place on the island. I really love the setting — Everwild is wonderful!

I enjoyed reading this novella, and I look forward to returning to the island!

Content:
Christian Romance
Faith Filled Fiction
Intimacy level: Kisses Only
Language: No profanity

[Olivia]

Enjoyed this sweet Christian romance novella. I expected it to be more cheesy and cliche, but it was refreshingly realistic and God-honouring.

[Bernadette Cinkoske]

Capsules & Crushes is a Christian, beachy, former crush romance. Makayla reconnects with Devon, her old high school crush. She enjoys metal detecting with him and his dog. Devon uncovers their high school time capsule and finds more than he expected. There is a lot of light hearted fun, especially with the dog, but there are some serious themes as well. This novella length book is the perfect way to spend an afternoon escaping to Everwild Island. I look forward to the next book.

[Faith]

Capsules & Crushes was a short and sweet read. I finished it in just over an hour.

Makayla reconnects with Devon, a guy she’s had a crush on for many years who (quite literally) doesn’t know she exists. Adventures metal-detecting on the beach and playing with his pup, Lucky, gives us lots of cute moments. But the book isn’t all fluff—our main couple end up having some serious conversations about what’s needed for a healthy relationship, which I really enjoyed seeing.

she fell first / friend’s older brother / hurting MMC / longtime crush / connecting over a hobby / awkward meet-cute-like moments / silly puppy dog / smalltown charm

[Alyssa Davis]

This is such a cute story! I love the sweet Christian romance and how the characters grow closer to God and each other.
Favorite quote: “I say that crushes will crush a friendship. Either you become friends, or you don’t. And when you’re friends, you’ll either work out as a couple, or you won’t. It’s as simple as that.”

[Purple Turtle Reads]

Every time I get the chance to revisit Everwild Island, I'm jumping at the opportunity! This was such a short, heartfelt, and cute novella, and the perfect summery, beachy read to enjoy before the weather starts getting colder! And who wouldn't have a crush on a guy like Devon?!

Hence the title, this novella is all about capsules and crushes, but also provides the emotional depth required for a God-centered relationship, which I wholeheartedly value. Matthews does a great job highlighting the strong message of godly, Biblical love. I loved how both characters prayed for guidance and understanding in God's plan for their lives and growing relationship. Definitely why I love her romances! ❤️

Devon and Makayla were both fun characters! While making videos isn't really my thing, being a metal detectorist like Devon would be super cool! I'm also an aspiring educator, so I loved that connection I shared with Makayla! Aunt Shelly was probably my favorite with her matchmaking skills, though I also loved troublesome Lucky! ❤️

The setting is also so captivating and a place I would move to in a heartbeat! I'm a beachy girl through and through, and would love visiting all the little shops and eating at the local restaurants!

While short, this super sweet novella is definitely worth the read if you love Christian, beachy-vibes romances! ❤️ Also, make sure to check out Matthew's newly released, full-length novel, Coasts & Coworkers!

✨ Metal Detectorist × First Year Teacher
✨ Vacation Romance
✨ Childhood Crush to More / Loved You Forever
✨ Friend’s Brother
✨ Dog Person Romance
✨ Beach Town Settings
✨ Clean, Christian Romance
✨ Sweet Kisses Only

✨ Capsules & Crushes is a standalone "Sweethearts on Everwild" novella, but it is connected to the upcoming mainstream series. Suitable for young adult readers and older readers. ✨

[Taylor Barstad]

When Devon goes metal detecting on Everwild Island for his channel, he accidentally unearths his childhood capsule years earlier than he was meant to. What he discovers inside is an old note from his sister’s best friend, making it clear she had a major crush on him. When he runs into her, will he and Makayla finally get together, or will the past pains of rejection cause him to run away what was always in front of him?

I can’t get enough of the Sweethearts on Everwild series! This was such an incredible novella. I fell in love with the characters from the very first page. I always find unrequited crushes that become a reality years later so compelling. Makayla was so sweet, and I am glad she got her second chance to show Devon they were meant for each other. Devon’s occupation was so neat. I loved learning about metal detecting, and his dog, Lucky, was so adorable trying to help! All in all, an incredible read! I can’t recommend it enough!

I received this book from the author. I am under no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[Amy Johnson]

ARC review 5⭐️ when @amandateroauthor announced she was turning her flash fiction piece into a full Everwild novella, I was so excited!!! I fell in love with Everwild island and the community there during her first novel Coasts and Coworkers that released this summer, and could not wait to get back for a short visit before the end of summer. This book was so sweet. I loved the high school crush aspect and how that really changed and grew. It was addressed with such care for childhood feelings, but also consideration for the respect and communication that lead to a real healthy adult relationship. And Lucky!!! I loved that dog (even if he was a bit of trouble sometimes 😂) This was a short and easy read, perfect for a quick cozy weekend before we officially admit it’s fall lol. Great faith themes. Kisses only romance; no bad language. Thank you, Amanda, for the amazing opportunity to be a part of the hype and review team for this amazing novella! 🤩🐚

[Christian Shelves]

I am grateful that Amanda Tero Matthews turned her flash fiction into a novella that delivers the same emotions, but with more to love. Devon and Makayla are memorable characters who are reunited on Everwild Island, years after they went to school together. While Devon is nursing a broken heart, Makayla is coming to terms with being around a man she has had a crush on for practically forever. Filled with shenanigans from Lucky the dog and wonderful people from the island, it is sweet to see how these two overcome their past in order to see a future together.

With crushes having the potential to go sideways, I appreciate that this book delves into other issues, including spiritual discernment, idolization, and friendship. What starts off as a breezy beach read contains some hard-hitting truths about how we can view and treat other people. Devon and Makayla both learn valuable lessons, and it's a joy to see how God takes their disappointments and hurts, transforming them into something new and unexpected. If you're looking for a story about the buried treasure in our hearts and what God can unearth in them when we trust Him, Capsules and Crushes is a charming read that offers a deeper look at seeing what others may miss at first glance.

Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...

Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Ysabel]

I was so happy to learn about this novella, because I read the short story (it started as a short story) and wanted more. I was even happier that the author had it written and released in such a short amount of time!

I read this book in one morning. It's very short and sweet. The romance is adorable (as is the dog). Also, in the epilogue, that was the best proposal scene I've ever read!!! I don't know why, it just suits them so well, and I love how Devon was sick with suspense XD

This book has Christian themes and elements but is not at all preachy. Highly recommend if you love short, sweet, clean/Christian beach romances.

NOTE: I was given a free eARC of this book from the author in exchange for my review. Opinion is my own.

[katescleanreads]

This was a great book to read in September, a last hurrah for summer, while I vacationed in the Thousand Islands. For a beachy read, it is light and fun, yet with well-developed characters, an interesting setting, and a believable storyline. It only takes a few hours to get through, but it was enough to raise my interest in this new to me author. I am going to read her first book in this series, and then the second when it releases. This is an easy and enjoyable stand alone story that will leave you wanting more.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Crystal]

This was a really sweet story about a girl who has had a crush since high school, and a guy that is nursing a broken heart. After literally running into each on Everwild Island, she tags along on his metal detecting adventure and... well, I won't give the rest away! I love the Christian themes in Amanda's books, and how the characters are truly seeking God's will and wanting to draw closer to Him. This is a short novella and only took me about an hour and a half to read.

Thanks to the author for sending me this ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Sharon]

Sweet addition to the Sweethearts on Everwild series by Amanda Tero Matthews.
Devon and Makayla are both back in town. She used to have a huge crush on him and the attraction is still strong.
His ex is getting married after dumping him and immediately starting a new relationship.
Makayla had a big crush on him almost ten years ago.
When they bump into each other, he doesn’t remember her but Lucky, his dog, helps bring them together.
*I received this asan ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.

[Lia Lorimer]

Lucky by name and lucky by nature
A five-minute sweet read, received via the author’s newsletter, that teases the reader into hoping that the author will develop it into a longer story soon!
Two coincidences, both involving Devon’s dog, Lucky, the day after a summer storm litters the beach on Everwild during his summer vacation promise to make the remainder of Devon’s visit more interesting. Any more details will result in spoilers 😊.

[Tarissa]

I've now read three Amanda Tero short stories this week, and enjoyed each one! Capsules & Crushes is such a cute and fun beach story. When the sea brings forth a time capsule from your past, you better pay attention. It may just hold the key to... love??

This one has me quite excited for Amanda Tero's brand new publication, Coasts & Coworkers. Can't wait to see how her new Everwild series unfolds.

[Lisa]

I enjoyed the story of beach combing and metal detecting that Makayla and Devon liked doing together. This brought them together and helped Devon to see that Makayla was the perfect match for him.

Tidbits and Tropes:
secret crush
best friend's brother
social media influencer

I recommend this clean romance novella for readers young and mature alike. Thank you to the author for a gifted copy. All opinions are my own with no obligation to write a positive review.

[Brooke Hannah]

RELEASE DAY! This is such a cute little novella. A great quick read with a lot of character development in such a short story.
A long-time crush on her best friend's brother; a man who is still recovering from heartbreak; and the acknowledgement that human issues arent always red flags, but we all deserve grace over expected perfection

The perfect short beach read to closenout beach season

Arc team/voluntarily reviewing, etc...

[Jennifer]

After having read Coasts & Coworkers (ARC), I jumped at the chance to read more of that world, even a snippet. It was delightfully enticing! The author engages the reader with a tiny adventure right from the first line. This is a sweet, little, Christian read with beachy goodness. Now, I am all the more excited to read the 2nd book in the series as soon as I can get my hands on it!

[Erin]

Capsules & Crushes provided the perfect beach escape when I couldn’t actually get away from home. I loved combing the beaches with Devon, playing with Lucky, and falling back into an old crush with Makayla. These two shared so many lovely moments and actually had the hard, but healthy, conversations needed to make a relationship really last. This was one of the best stories I have read!