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Happy in Honey Hill #3
A Lot Like Lavender
Operating Purple Pastures & Alpaca on my own was not ever in my plans, but neither was becoming a widow and a single mom at twenty-two. Though I love this land and the life I’ve built for myself and my daughter—including the alpacas we adore, the strays we’ve taken in along the way, and the rolling hills of lavender surrounding our farm—all the years of hard work and one-woman juggling since James’ death may not be enough to keep it all together.
In fact, I’m failing. Miserably. At farming, running a small business, managing the wild women of the Honey Hill PTA, and maintaining any semblance of a personal life.
To top off my utter insufficiencies, I’m now being forced to accept help from the last person I ever expected to show his face again, Jordan Love. But—though it pains me to admit—having him around repairing fences, caring for my fur babies, and bonding with Molly is the first time I haven’t felt so alone in all this since I lost my husband.
And most unexpectedly, Jordan's return to my life feels a lot like mending my heart.
________
For ten years, I’ve done a great job working through the grief of losing my best friend and the shame of selfishly walking away from the people we both cared about when I should have stayed. Even still, I knew coming back home to Honey Hill would dredge up regrets for past decisions. But when I see Emory Nelson for the first time since James’ death, I don’t expect the feelings I’ve kept well-suppressed for so long to come bubbling to the surface. Feelings I’ll need to get well under control if I intend to stick around.
I ran away when she needed me most. With a second chance to show up for Emory and her daughter, there’s no way I can walk away again. I'm determined to be someone she can depend on, even if it means forever pretending I don't want more.
Challenging. Beautiful. Forebearing. Resilient. Worthwhile…
Love looks a lot like lavender.
In fact, I’m failing. Miserably. At farming, running a small business, managing the wild women of the Honey Hill PTA, and maintaining any semblance of a personal life.
To top off my utter insufficiencies, I’m now being forced to accept help from the last person I ever expected to show his face again, Jordan Love. But—though it pains me to admit—having him around repairing fences, caring for my fur babies, and bonding with Molly is the first time I haven’t felt so alone in all this since I lost my husband.
And most unexpectedly, Jordan's return to my life feels a lot like mending my heart.
________
For ten years, I’ve done a great job working through the grief of losing my best friend and the shame of selfishly walking away from the people we both cared about when I should have stayed. Even still, I knew coming back home to Honey Hill would dredge up regrets for past decisions. But when I see Emory Nelson for the first time since James’ death, I don’t expect the feelings I’ve kept well-suppressed for so long to come bubbling to the surface. Feelings I’ll need to get well under control if I intend to stick around.
I ran away when she needed me most. With a second chance to show up for Emory and her daughter, there’s no way I can walk away again. I'm determined to be someone she can depend on, even if it means forever pretending I don't want more.
Challenging. Beautiful. Forebearing. Resilient. Worthwhile…
Love looks a lot like lavender.
270 pages, Paperback
First published August 3, 2026
About the author
B.R. Goodwin
12 books394 followersB.R. Goodwin is a Georgia native, married to her college sweetheart, and the mother of three wild animal children she adores. When she isn’t writing Christian Fiction, she’s reading, hiking, bee-keeping, soccer mom-ing, homeschooling, or planning her family’s next big adventure while drinking copious amounts of tea and coffee.
Above all else, the heartbeat of everything she does in life, friendship, and writing is with an eye to sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ with everyone she meets.
She recently dove head & heart first into the contemporary rom-com genre and is having the time of her life cackling at her own jokes and dreaming up swoon-worthy storylines for her characters.
Above all else, the heartbeat of everything she does in life, friendship, and writing is with an eye to sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ with everyone she meets.
She recently dove head & heart first into the contemporary rom-com genre and is having the time of her life cackling at her own jokes and dreaming up swoon-worthy storylines for her characters.
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August 20, 2026A Lot Like Lavender is a contemporary romance with a mix of humor and serious topics. I thought the emphasis on family was sweet and important in a time where the world doesn't value family and loyalty.
The times of humor were hilarious, too, especially when discussing the PTA herd. Those ladies (and You Got Trey) were something else. The commentary comparing them to wildlife had me laughing. The deeper and more serious parts evoked emotion, as well. I liked the theme of how grief and healing look different for everyone, and that men grieve too. The loss of a pet was both sad and bittersweetly amusing with the balloon incident.
Sensitive readers should note that there are discussions of loss of loved ones and the grief that follows. There is also the loss of a beloved pet.
For the faith element, there are a few mentions of God and Jesus. There was also some content I wasn't thrilled about. There is a play on words, using "Asscroft" instead of "Ashcroft" to describe an admittedly unlikable fellow who deserved to be spit on by an alpaca. Alcohol consumption was shown in a positive light, a character said she lusts over a man, the main characters slept in the same bed and on the same couch, him shirtless, and characters are encouraged to make out with each other. This made the book feel like it was trying to walk both sides: have some mentions of God, but push the line with certain areas of content.
I received a copy of this book from JustReadTours and the publisher for promotional purposes. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
The times of humor were hilarious, too, especially when discussing the PTA herd. Those ladies (and You Got Trey) were something else. The commentary comparing them to wildlife had me laughing. The deeper and more serious parts evoked emotion, as well. I liked the theme of how grief and healing look different for everyone, and that men grieve too. The loss of a pet was both sad and bittersweetly amusing with the balloon incident.
Sensitive readers should note that there are discussions of loss of loved ones and the grief that follows. There is also the loss of a beloved pet.
For the faith element, there are a few mentions of God and Jesus. There was also some content I wasn't thrilled about. There is a play on words, using "Asscroft" instead of "Ashcroft" to describe an admittedly unlikable fellow who deserved to be spit on by an alpaca. Alcohol consumption was shown in a positive light, a character said she lusts over a man, the main characters slept in the same bed and on the same couch, him shirtless, and characters are encouraged to make out with each other. This made the book feel like it was trying to walk both sides: have some mentions of God, but push the line with certain areas of content.
I received a copy of this book from JustReadTours and the publisher for promotional purposes. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
July 2, 2026
A Lot Like Lavender
@authorbrgoodwin
Release date 8/3
This is now my favorite rom com by her!!
Emory truly needed Jordan.
It couldn’t have been anyone else. 💜💚
I thought this book had the perfect amount of lightness and depth. I loved the part on the motorcycle when she lets go and put her hands in the air - truly letting go and allowing herself to not only live but be loved again. There were so many amazing parts in this book, I could go on and on. I loved the tattoo he got on the 10th anniversary 🥹
The witty remarks, the relationship between her & Dinah. All the side characters, the alpacas! The bonus epilogue was ICING on the cake!! This book was funny & so sweet!
You need this book on your TBR!
I truly loved it!!
*No foul language, no spice. Kissing only.
*I received an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
@authorbrgoodwin
Release date 8/3
This is now my favorite rom com by her!!
Emory truly needed Jordan.
It couldn’t have been anyone else. 💜💚
I thought this book had the perfect amount of lightness and depth. I loved the part on the motorcycle when she lets go and put her hands in the air - truly letting go and allowing herself to not only live but be loved again. There were so many amazing parts in this book, I could go on and on. I loved the tattoo he got on the 10th anniversary 🥹
The witty remarks, the relationship between her & Dinah. All the side characters, the alpacas! The bonus epilogue was ICING on the cake!! This book was funny & so sweet!
You need this book on your TBR!
I truly loved it!!
*No foul language, no spice. Kissing only.
*I received an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 26, 2026
This one pulled at my heartstrings the entire time! Such a sweet, tender story with moments that made me laugh out loud, too. Emory is a fiercely independent woman after enduring lots of loss in her life. When her former best friend Jordan comes back into town unannounced, her world starts shifting. Jordan was nearly perfect, but my favorite thing about him was his adoration for both Emory and her daughter. Their story deals with grief, loss, and moving on in a way that still honors those who are gone. Throw in the small town antics and this one is a winner.
September 13, 2026
This was great! It was written well, I felt big feelings and I wished it didn't end!! So swooney!!!!
October 1, 2026
BR Goodwin is one of my new favorite authors. I recently found out she’s a Christian, no spice, romance writer. I have enjoyed the entire Honey Hill Series and the entire series gets a 5⭐️ from me! I absolutely loved the Emory and Jordan story line. This one tackles love after loss and single motherhood. The author delicately handles the grief storyline and the act of “letting go.” The romance was done with patience and grace. Two things can exist at one time: pain and happiness. 🪻🦙🍷💛
“He was friends with the version of me that I hardly remember, and yet, he also sees me as I am now. A little broken and bruised. Hiding emotions from the world that, for reasons I still don’t understand, I don’t feel as if I need to hide from him. Jordan sees all of me, and he keeps showing up. For me and for Molly.”
“But it doesn’t mean God can’t redeem that story and make it into something wholly new and immeasurably worthwhile. And it certainly doesn’t mean that you should recuse yourself from being a part of that story—of that love—because of a sense of loyalty to a friend who’d want nothing but the best for you.”
“He was friends with the version of me that I hardly remember, and yet, he also sees me as I am now. A little broken and bruised. Hiding emotions from the world that, for reasons I still don’t understand, I don’t feel as if I need to hide from him. Jordan sees all of me, and he keeps showing up. For me and for Molly.”
“But it doesn’t mean God can’t redeem that story and make it into something wholly new and immeasurably worthwhile. And it certainly doesn’t mean that you should recuse yourself from being a part of that story—of that love—because of a sense of loyalty to a friend who’d want nothing but the best for you.”
September 12, 2026
*3.5 stars
This one was better and it did have more Jack and Dinah in it…
But overall, it wasn’t that good and it wasn’t that bad. So 3 and A Half GOLD STAR STICKERS FOR YOU!
This one was better and it did have more Jack and Dinah in it…
But overall, it wasn’t that good and it wasn’t that bad. So 3 and A Half GOLD STAR STICKERS FOR YOU!
August 18, 2026
This story was packed full of heart! It’s the first book I have read by this author and I’m already trying to decide which of her other books I want to read next.
The author did a great job of showing how Emory has persevered in life, finding the happy moments with her daughter and their animals on the farm. She has been moving through the day to day moments, slowly working through her grief. Yet, in this story, she finally awakens! I loved seeing Emory begin to desire to fully live life again and the way she was so drawn and connected to her recently returned friend, Jordan.
Their romance was absolutely delightful and left me swooning! And it was even more special knowing that Jordan had loved Emory for so long, while also loving and mourning his best friend. They made such a sweet little family and it was beautiful to see how Jordan bonded with Emory’s daughter, Molly.
I loved this sweet, closed door story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The author did a great job of showing how Emory has persevered in life, finding the happy moments with her daughter and their animals on the farm. She has been moving through the day to day moments, slowly working through her grief. Yet, in this story, she finally awakens! I loved seeing Emory begin to desire to fully live life again and the way she was so drawn and connected to her recently returned friend, Jordan.
Their romance was absolutely delightful and left me swooning! And it was even more special knowing that Jordan had loved Emory for so long, while also loving and mourning his best friend. They made such a sweet little family and it was beautiful to see how Jordan bonded with Emory’s daughter, Molly.
I loved this sweet, closed door story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 8, 2026
B.R. Goodwin has constantly put out the best sweet rom com’s and A Lot Like Lavender was yet again another 5⭐️ read that will leave me thinking about it for years to come. I was able to read an advanced copy and I’m so grateful!
This is only the second book I’ve read that tackles the topic of loss and grief and she wrote this one so incredibly well.
I love how she added in moments that made me laugh, especially during scenes that would typically be more somber and sad (chapter 16 when you get to it…it’s GOLD).
I loved the main characters and it was really fun to get to know Emory better after reading about her in previous books. Our MMC is the ultimate green flag and just wanted to do anything he could to care for both Emory and her daughter.
B.R. Goodwin has a writing style that pulls you in, makes you think but also giggle. She writes love stories that give you all the butterflies and writes in elements of faith that are just perfect for the story.
Highly recommend!!
This is only the second book I’ve read that tackles the topic of loss and grief and she wrote this one so incredibly well.
I love how she added in moments that made me laugh, especially during scenes that would typically be more somber and sad (chapter 16 when you get to it…it’s GOLD).
I loved the main characters and it was really fun to get to know Emory better after reading about her in previous books. Our MMC is the ultimate green flag and just wanted to do anything he could to care for both Emory and her daughter.
B.R. Goodwin has a writing style that pulls you in, makes you think but also giggle. She writes love stories that give you all the butterflies and writes in elements of faith that are just perfect for the story.
Highly recommend!!
July 24, 2026
B. R. Goodwin’s books never disappoint 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 This was such a fun read that had me laughing out loud more than once—and tearing up a time or two as well. It’s a beautiful story of healing, restoration, and a second chance at love after unimaginable heartbreak. If you’re wanting a story that balances serious emotional conflict and humor beautifully, this is it! 💕
**I received an advanced copy of this book for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
**I received an advanced copy of this book for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
August 6, 2026
4.5 rounded up
Honestly I almost didn't even want to read this story because when I read, I tend to view myself as the FMC when it's written in first person & I DID NOT want to with Emory's story. I did not want to put myself in her shoes or even read about her finding love after her husband's death, but I really am glad I did.
Emory's story is so broken but still so full of love in every aspect except the romantic sense. It was beautiful to watch her find that as well after such a tragic loss, fighting her feelings & grief while raising her daughter, owning a hobby farm, being a good sister & auntie & man, I just love her. I'm so glad she got her great love with James & then another great love with Jordan, who was an actual little tattooed angel boy.
I loved the banter, the chemistry, the way she handled hard topics with care & even humor throughout this book.
📖: 1st person, dual POV
🌶️: kisses only
🤐: no foul language
⚠️: parental loss (past, off page), death of spouse (past, off page), death of an animal (not graphic or from abuse, handled with care)
Honestly I almost didn't even want to read this story because when I read, I tend to view myself as the FMC when it's written in first person & I DID NOT want to with Emory's story. I did not want to put myself in her shoes or even read about her finding love after her husband's death, but I really am glad I did.
Emory's story is so broken but still so full of love in every aspect except the romantic sense. It was beautiful to watch her find that as well after such a tragic loss, fighting her feelings & grief while raising her daughter, owning a hobby farm, being a good sister & auntie & man, I just love her. I'm so glad she got her great love with James & then another great love with Jordan, who was an actual little tattooed angel boy.
I loved the banter, the chemistry, the way she handled hard topics with care & even humor throughout this book.
📖: 1st person, dual POV
🌶️: kisses only
🤐: no foul language
⚠️: parental loss (past, off page), death of spouse (past, off page), death of an animal (not graphic or from abuse, handled with care)
October 6, 2026
Spice: none, kissing, shirtless man
Language: none
BR Goodwin is pure magic in the way she weaves the most diabolically hilarious moments into the depths of grief, healing, and second chances for love. This one made me cry. And swoon. Lots and lots of swooning because good grief, this journey of love is perfection.
Alpacas, lavender farms, small town shenanigans, a motorcycle riding MMC, and a widowed mom learning she can love again.
Add this one to your TBR. It's amazing.
{no spice romcom, widowed fmc, small town, single mom, he falls first, faith themes}
Language: none
BR Goodwin is pure magic in the way she weaves the most diabolically hilarious moments into the depths of grief, healing, and second chances for love. This one made me cry. And swoon. Lots and lots of swooning because good grief, this journey of love is perfection.
Alpacas, lavender farms, small town shenanigans, a motorcycle riding MMC, and a widowed mom learning she can love again.
Add this one to your TBR. It's amazing.
{no spice romcom, widowed fmc, small town, single mom, he falls first, faith themes}
September 1, 2026
A Lot Like Lavender spotlight + give a wa y @brgoodwinauthor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🫑Closed door
Mild + infrequent
Oh my heart this book is a work of art! Love after loss and walking with a character through grief always gives me the feels. | laughed, I cried, and I was cheering Emory on every step of the way. @brgoodwinauthor has such a knack for storytelling and making the characters feel like friends.
small town romance | second chance romance | single mom | Love after loss | faith themes
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🫑Closed door
Mild + infrequent
Oh my heart this book is a work of art! Love after loss and walking with a character through grief always gives me the feels. | laughed, I cried, and I was cheering Emory on every step of the way. @brgoodwinauthor has such a knack for storytelling and making the characters feel like friends.
small town romance | second chance romance | single mom | Love after loss | faith themes
August 14, 2026
5 stars
All. The. Feels. Oh my goodness, this book had me bawling and laughing and falling in love with Jordan (if I were like my daughter’s age…). Like Emory, I became a widow at way too young an age, but I was 43 with 2 teens.
I feel this quote from the book in my very core: “…that pain has morphed, over the years, into something more like longing and deep sadness, I’d guess only fellow widows would understand. I’m sad for Molly…” Her daughter has the same name as mine. It’s been 12 years and 9 months, and I’m still sad for me and my kids. I’m sad for them every Father’s Day. This quote hit me too since my husband’s death was sudden, “I wonder what I would have done if I’d had some sign that we’d go to bed that night and James wouldn’t wake up in the morning.” I’m always remembering that last night. We talked about his hunting experience of the day. Exciting, right? We’re never guaranteed tomorrow. Thank the Lord that I know he was a faithful follower of Christ, and I’ll see him again one day.
And this quote, “Ten years have passed. Ten years since I lost my husband, and God knows, I’ve mourned that loss every day since. I’ll forever be mourning, of course, but all I can seem to think about today is the fact that I’m…happy.” Seeing Emory find love with Jordan made me so so happy. Yeah, it’s a book, but you know…when you’re reading it, it’s real! Jordan is super swoony (this book is kisses only), and he’s a steadfast friend. No matter how much Emory tried to push him away when he first came back, he remained loyally by her side, helping around the farm, whether she wanted him there or not. The way Molly bonded with Jordan almost immediately was adorable. I tremendously loved her character!
This is actually the first B.R. Goodwin book that I’ve read! I really want to go back and read the first two, especially given the author’s note at the end of the book. Be sure to read it! She talks about how this book differs from her others given the fact that it’s not marketed as a Christian book. It’s still a clean book, but there’s not a faith thread.
I really can’t say enough good things about A Lot Like Lavender, and I just completely adored it! I highly recommend it to those of you who love rom-coms and can handle reading about deep grief. Enjoy!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
All. The. Feels. Oh my goodness, this book had me bawling and laughing and falling in love with Jordan (if I were like my daughter’s age…). Like Emory, I became a widow at way too young an age, but I was 43 with 2 teens.
I feel this quote from the book in my very core: “…that pain has morphed, over the years, into something more like longing and deep sadness, I’d guess only fellow widows would understand. I’m sad for Molly…” Her daughter has the same name as mine. It’s been 12 years and 9 months, and I’m still sad for me and my kids. I’m sad for them every Father’s Day. This quote hit me too since my husband’s death was sudden, “I wonder what I would have done if I’d had some sign that we’d go to bed that night and James wouldn’t wake up in the morning.” I’m always remembering that last night. We talked about his hunting experience of the day. Exciting, right? We’re never guaranteed tomorrow. Thank the Lord that I know he was a faithful follower of Christ, and I’ll see him again one day.
And this quote, “Ten years have passed. Ten years since I lost my husband, and God knows, I’ve mourned that loss every day since. I’ll forever be mourning, of course, but all I can seem to think about today is the fact that I’m…happy.” Seeing Emory find love with Jordan made me so so happy. Yeah, it’s a book, but you know…when you’re reading it, it’s real! Jordan is super swoony (this book is kisses only), and he’s a steadfast friend. No matter how much Emory tried to push him away when he first came back, he remained loyally by her side, helping around the farm, whether she wanted him there or not. The way Molly bonded with Jordan almost immediately was adorable. I tremendously loved her character!
This is actually the first B.R. Goodwin book that I’ve read! I really want to go back and read the first two, especially given the author’s note at the end of the book. Be sure to read it! She talks about how this book differs from her others given the fact that it’s not marketed as a Christian book. It’s still a clean book, but there’s not a faith thread.
I really can’t say enough good things about A Lot Like Lavender, and I just completely adored it! I highly recommend it to those of you who love rom-coms and can handle reading about deep grief. Enjoy!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
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August 25, 20264.5
if you're in the mood to cry over an alpaca, this is the book for you! (but there's also so much to swoon over, too, of course!)
right as everything seems to be going wrong for emory nelson, dr. jordan love walks back into her life. he was her late husband's best friend, but disappeared after the loss. it's been ten years, and he's ready to make amends... but can she trust him to stay this time?
a lot like lavender is quite the emotional ride. one page, i'm laughing at something molly (emory's daughter) says... the next, i'm swooning over something jordan does... and the next, i'm crying with emory over something she's lost. needless to say, i quickly became attached to these characters and loved all the time i got to spend with them.
honey hill, too, is such a sweet small town. it has its fair share of nosy busybodies, naturally, but it makes a perfect backdrop for this romance. i so enjoyed seeing the characters rally around emory, jordan, and molly as they navigated the challenges of grief, second chances, and moving forward.
all in all, a lot like lavender is a delightful contemporary romance, one that's oh so easy to recommend.
(i received a complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)
if you're in the mood to cry over an alpaca, this is the book for you! (but there's also so much to swoon over, too, of course!)
right as everything seems to be going wrong for emory nelson, dr. jordan love walks back into her life. he was her late husband's best friend, but disappeared after the loss. it's been ten years, and he's ready to make amends... but can she trust him to stay this time?
a lot like lavender is quite the emotional ride. one page, i'm laughing at something molly (emory's daughter) says... the next, i'm swooning over something jordan does... and the next, i'm crying with emory over something she's lost. needless to say, i quickly became attached to these characters and loved all the time i got to spend with them.
honey hill, too, is such a sweet small town. it has its fair share of nosy busybodies, naturally, but it makes a perfect backdrop for this romance. i so enjoyed seeing the characters rally around emory, jordan, and molly as they navigated the challenges of grief, second chances, and moving forward.
all in all, a lot like lavender is a delightful contemporary romance, one that's oh so easy to recommend.
(i received a complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)
September 21, 2026
Cute read! Loved Jordan and Emory
September 5, 2026
fun second chance/widow romance
This book was sweet and fun and made me laugh. Which is really all you need in a romcom, right? I find myself wanting to read all of BR Goodwin’s books now.
This book was sweet and fun and made me laugh. Which is really all you need in a romcom, right? I find myself wanting to read all of BR Goodwin’s books now.
July 8, 2026
🫑: kisses only (jokes/innuendo between married couples but nothing that feels inappropriate)
🤬: none
WOW. I thought that nothing could top my love for Forget Me Knot (book 1 in this series and romcom perfection in my humble opinion) but after reading Jordan and Emory’s story, I’m questioning everything. I have some guilt that Jack Jones (my OG Brianna Goodwin book boyfriend favorite) may finally be replaced by Dr. Jordan Love. Jury is still out on that one, though, because both books are so amazing.
A Lot Like Lavender is the feel good book my heart NEEDED right now. It was equal parts funny, angsty (only slightly), heart-warming, and just plain fun. I felt like I was returning to a beloved family reunion and all of my favorite characters were there. Plus, I got to meet some amazing new characters like Jordan and Drs. Rafferty and Rafferty (who I aspire to be like once I’m an advanced age but still madly in love and making out with my husband) lol.
Jordan is PERFECT. First, the man has glasses AND tattoos. I repeat, he has GLASSES AND TATTOOS. I could stop here and my love for his character would need no further explanation, but I’ll continue on. Not only is he an animal lover, but he is also the world’s biggest softy and sweetheart wrapped into a yummy package. He also has an affinity for balloon art… 😂 He left Honey Hill after his best friend James (Emory’s husband) passes away and doesn’t return until 10 years later. He realizes how much he’s missed out on, but after finding healing in God, he’s able to recognize what he wants and needs to do. And both of those things are taking care of Emory and sweet Molly.
AND the way this man loves Molly right away is like medicine for the soul. It just heals something inside of you because of how wholesome their relationship is. He is a natural caregiver and dad, though he feels a lot of guilt for having those dreams. 🥹 Not only does he love Molly, but he also loved Emory SO hard, and YEARNS for her. I’m talking years of yearning, and now that he’s back in her life, the man sleeps in her barn and on her couch so he doesn’t have to be away from her. Then wakes up early in the morning and does repairs on her farm without ever being asked. Talk about acts of service. 😮💨
Then we have Emory who is so strong and such a great mom, but she’s slowly drowning under the pressure. She missed her best friend Jordan, and is finally able to make peace with him and forgive the hurts he caused. Once they get past that, it’s like her heart is able to heal and she realizes how much she wants to move on with Jordan. And I think deep down she realizes James would be happy for her, Molly, and Jordan creating their own little family together.
This book is so beautiful, and it’s such a great reminder of how God can heal your heart. He may not stop the hard things from happening, but he’ll be with you through the dark times, and in the end, will bring glory to himself.
I could go on and on about this book, but then people would probably get tired of reading my review. So I’ll leave you with this, PLEASE READ THIS BOOK! You won’t regret it. And when you get to the epilogues, make sure you have tissues. 🥹💖
*I was given an ARC of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review
🤬: none
WOW. I thought that nothing could top my love for Forget Me Knot (book 1 in this series and romcom perfection in my humble opinion) but after reading Jordan and Emory’s story, I’m questioning everything. I have some guilt that Jack Jones (my OG Brianna Goodwin book boyfriend favorite) may finally be replaced by Dr. Jordan Love. Jury is still out on that one, though, because both books are so amazing.
A Lot Like Lavender is the feel good book my heart NEEDED right now. It was equal parts funny, angsty (only slightly), heart-warming, and just plain fun. I felt like I was returning to a beloved family reunion and all of my favorite characters were there. Plus, I got to meet some amazing new characters like Jordan and Drs. Rafferty and Rafferty (who I aspire to be like once I’m an advanced age but still madly in love and making out with my husband) lol.
Jordan is PERFECT. First, the man has glasses AND tattoos. I repeat, he has GLASSES AND TATTOOS. I could stop here and my love for his character would need no further explanation, but I’ll continue on. Not only is he an animal lover, but he is also the world’s biggest softy and sweetheart wrapped into a yummy package. He also has an affinity for balloon art… 😂 He left Honey Hill after his best friend James (Emory’s husband) passes away and doesn’t return until 10 years later. He realizes how much he’s missed out on, but after finding healing in God, he’s able to recognize what he wants and needs to do. And both of those things are taking care of Emory and sweet Molly.
AND the way this man loves Molly right away is like medicine for the soul. It just heals something inside of you because of how wholesome their relationship is. He is a natural caregiver and dad, though he feels a lot of guilt for having those dreams. 🥹 Not only does he love Molly, but he also loved Emory SO hard, and YEARNS for her. I’m talking years of yearning, and now that he’s back in her life, the man sleeps in her barn and on her couch so he doesn’t have to be away from her. Then wakes up early in the morning and does repairs on her farm without ever being asked. Talk about acts of service. 😮💨
Then we have Emory who is so strong and such a great mom, but she’s slowly drowning under the pressure. She missed her best friend Jordan, and is finally able to make peace with him and forgive the hurts he caused. Once they get past that, it’s like her heart is able to heal and she realizes how much she wants to move on with Jordan. And I think deep down she realizes James would be happy for her, Molly, and Jordan creating their own little family together.
This book is so beautiful, and it’s such a great reminder of how God can heal your heart. He may not stop the hard things from happening, but he’ll be with you through the dark times, and in the end, will bring glory to himself.
I could go on and on about this book, but then people would probably get tired of reading my review. So I’ll leave you with this, PLEASE READ THIS BOOK! You won’t regret it. And when you get to the epilogues, make sure you have tissues. 🥹💖
*I was given an ARC of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review
August 18, 2026
I received a complimentary copy of A Lot Like Lavender as part of a JustRead tour. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I have read every book in this series, and I always enjoy returning to this little town. B.R. Goodwin has created such a warm community filled with characters who genuinely show up for one another. I love the closeness of the families, the protectiveness between the characters, and the way the town itself has become such an important part of the series. There is also a quirky charm to Goodwin’s writing that gives these books their own personality.
At the heart of A Lot Like Lavender is a second chance romance between Emory and Jordan, and I thought the chemistry between them was one of the strongest parts of the story. Their shared history adds another layer to their relationship, and I enjoyed watching them find their way back into one another’s lives.
The lavender farm, alpacas, family relationships, and familiar small-town setting also give the story plenty of charm. Readers who have already spent time in this series will find many of the things that make Honey Hill such an inviting place to revisit.
This particular installment does carry more emotional weight. Emory is a widow who is still navigating the loss of her husband while also facing uncertainty surrounding her farm. The story doesn’t feel relentlessly heavy, but grief and loss are very much part of her journey. There is also animal death, which may be helpful for sensitive readers to know beforehand.
A couple of smaller moments also bumped against my own reading preferences. During an emotionally charged confrontation, Emory slaps Jordan because of the hurt she carries over his having disappeared from her life years earlier. Physical aggression during romantic conflict is something I personally struggle with in fiction, regardless of which character is doing the hitting, so that scene wasn’t one that worked particularly well for me.
There is also a brief conversation in which a child repeats something a classmate has said about his father sleeping naked. I realize many readers may view that as an innocent “kids say unexpected things” moment and move right past it. References to nudity or other adult subjects coming through a child’s dialogue are simply something I’m personally uncomfortable with.
I enjoyed Emory and Jordan’s chemistry, loved returning to this community, and continued to appreciate the warmth and supportiveness that runs through the series.
A Lot Like Lavender was a four-star read for me, but readers who enjoy emotionally grounded second chance romances, close-knit communities, family relationships, and stories about finding love after loss may connect with this one much more strongly than I did. 💜🪻
I have read every book in this series, and I always enjoy returning to this little town. B.R. Goodwin has created such a warm community filled with characters who genuinely show up for one another. I love the closeness of the families, the protectiveness between the characters, and the way the town itself has become such an important part of the series. There is also a quirky charm to Goodwin’s writing that gives these books their own personality.
At the heart of A Lot Like Lavender is a second chance romance between Emory and Jordan, and I thought the chemistry between them was one of the strongest parts of the story. Their shared history adds another layer to their relationship, and I enjoyed watching them find their way back into one another’s lives.
The lavender farm, alpacas, family relationships, and familiar small-town setting also give the story plenty of charm. Readers who have already spent time in this series will find many of the things that make Honey Hill such an inviting place to revisit.
This particular installment does carry more emotional weight. Emory is a widow who is still navigating the loss of her husband while also facing uncertainty surrounding her farm. The story doesn’t feel relentlessly heavy, but grief and loss are very much part of her journey. There is also animal death, which may be helpful for sensitive readers to know beforehand.
A couple of smaller moments also bumped against my own reading preferences. During an emotionally charged confrontation, Emory slaps Jordan because of the hurt she carries over his having disappeared from her life years earlier. Physical aggression during romantic conflict is something I personally struggle with in fiction, regardless of which character is doing the hitting, so that scene wasn’t one that worked particularly well for me.
There is also a brief conversation in which a child repeats something a classmate has said about his father sleeping naked. I realize many readers may view that as an innocent “kids say unexpected things” moment and move right past it. References to nudity or other adult subjects coming through a child’s dialogue are simply something I’m personally uncomfortable with.
I enjoyed Emory and Jordan’s chemistry, loved returning to this community, and continued to appreciate the warmth and supportiveness that runs through the series.
A Lot Like Lavender was a four-star read for me, but readers who enjoy emotionally grounded second chance romances, close-knit communities, family relationships, and stories about finding love after loss may connect with this one much more strongly than I did. 💜🪻
August 21, 2026
I loved the setting of this! I mean, can you go wrong with the whole small town farm with alpacas roaming around? The answer is no.
I think I just didn’t fully buy in to the love story. I went into this knowing that there was a widowed woman / deceased husband’s best friend situation going on and I didn’t care, but something about it didn’t really work for me. I think it was because it felt like Emory and Jordan had feelings for each other all along. Suppressed, never acted on, not unfaithful to her husband feelings, but attraction all along. Which is fine I guess because “You can be attracted to other people when you’re married / don’t be a prude blah blah blah,” but he’s your husband’s best friend, not some random hot dude walking down the street. I just wasn’t feeling a lot of “KISS ALREADY!!!!” energy while reading. A perfect example is when I read Emory thinking this 50% in…
“I gazed. Partook. Feasted. I ate up every inch of the man’s skin with starved eyes, shocked that I was doing so, but entirely satisfied with the show.”
“ I can’t even think about the way Jordan’s touch, alone—on my elbow, for goodness’ sake—sent me into a tailspin of disgraceful what ifs.”
I felt more “😬, yikes” than “Yeah girl!” which is more due to something lacking in their journey verses me being against the “deceased best friend’s widow” trope in general. It has been done successfully where I felt like the dead husband was fully respected AND the two people left grieving now belonged together, but something was missing here…
Furthermore, why has Jordan always had a nickname for Emory? Is it weird for your best friend to call your wife by a nickname? I think it is… Anyway, love this author Nd loved seeing Jack and Dinah from book one, but something just didn’t click for me with this one.
I think I just didn’t fully buy in to the love story. I went into this knowing that there was a widowed woman / deceased husband’s best friend situation going on and I didn’t care, but something about it didn’t really work for me. I think it was because it felt like Emory and Jordan had feelings for each other all along. Suppressed, never acted on, not unfaithful to her husband feelings, but attraction all along. Which is fine I guess because “You can be attracted to other people when you’re married / don’t be a prude blah blah blah,” but he’s your husband’s best friend, not some random hot dude walking down the street. I just wasn’t feeling a lot of “KISS ALREADY!!!!” energy while reading. A perfect example is when I read Emory thinking this 50% in…
“I gazed. Partook. Feasted. I ate up every inch of the man’s skin with starved eyes, shocked that I was doing so, but entirely satisfied with the show.”
“ I can’t even think about the way Jordan’s touch, alone—on my elbow, for goodness’ sake—sent me into a tailspin of disgraceful what ifs.”
I felt more “😬, yikes” than “Yeah girl!” which is more due to something lacking in their journey verses me being against the “deceased best friend’s widow” trope in general. It has been done successfully where I felt like the dead husband was fully respected AND the two people left grieving now belonged together, but something was missing here…
Furthermore, why has Jordan always had a nickname for Emory? Is it weird for your best friend to call your wife by a nickname? I think it is… Anyway, love this author Nd loved seeing Jack and Dinah from book one, but something just didn’t click for me with this one.
September 4, 2026
6/5 ⭐️
Okay, this was so, so, so good!! I might have actually liked it even better than Forget Me Knot—which was the first book I read by B.R. Goodwin and absolutely loved because of its unique storyline.
I am so glad Emory got her HEA! Jordan was her best friend who abandoned her at the worst moment of her life 10 years ago. Now he’s back, and he’s not going anywhere. He’s the hot new veterinarian in town everyone is gossiping about, but he has such a soft side—especially for the people he loves. (Also, reading about some of the pet parents coming into his clinic was hilarious—poor Veronica, iykyk! 🤣)
I adored the way Jordan saw what Emory needed and just took care of it without wanting any fanfare or recognition. The way he immediately loved Molly—the daughter of Emory and her late husband (who was also Jordan’s best friend)—completely melted my heart. Emory has taken care of everyone else for so long, and it was finally time for someone to take care of her. Jordan recognized that right away and stepped up, staying in her barn loft and on her couch just to be close whenever she needed him.
Watching Emory’s healing journey after being widowed at such a young age was beautiful. She learned to let go of the pain she’d been holding onto for ten years without losing her precious memories of James, ultimately finding true happiness again.
I was hooked from page one with the PTA meeting craziness—it was absolute comedy gold! There were so many laugh-out-loud moments balanced against heavier themes, which was so refreshing.
This book officially sealed the deal: I am a B.R. Goodwin fan for life! While this is the third book in the series, it might just be my absolute favorite.
Thank you to B.R. Goodwin and Just Read Tours for a copy of the book. These are my 100% honest thoughts.
Okay, this was so, so, so good!! I might have actually liked it even better than Forget Me Knot—which was the first book I read by B.R. Goodwin and absolutely loved because of its unique storyline.
I am so glad Emory got her HEA! Jordan was her best friend who abandoned her at the worst moment of her life 10 years ago. Now he’s back, and he’s not going anywhere. He’s the hot new veterinarian in town everyone is gossiping about, but he has such a soft side—especially for the people he loves. (Also, reading about some of the pet parents coming into his clinic was hilarious—poor Veronica, iykyk! 🤣)
I adored the way Jordan saw what Emory needed and just took care of it without wanting any fanfare or recognition. The way he immediately loved Molly—the daughter of Emory and her late husband (who was also Jordan’s best friend)—completely melted my heart. Emory has taken care of everyone else for so long, and it was finally time for someone to take care of her. Jordan recognized that right away and stepped up, staying in her barn loft and on her couch just to be close whenever she needed him.
Watching Emory’s healing journey after being widowed at such a young age was beautiful. She learned to let go of the pain she’d been holding onto for ten years without losing her precious memories of James, ultimately finding true happiness again.
I was hooked from page one with the PTA meeting craziness—it was absolute comedy gold! There were so many laugh-out-loud moments balanced against heavier themes, which was so refreshing.
This book officially sealed the deal: I am a B.R. Goodwin fan for life! While this is the third book in the series, it might just be my absolute favorite.
Thank you to B.R. Goodwin and Just Read Tours for a copy of the book. These are my 100% honest thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, I truly enjoyed this read SO much.
Emory and Jordan had me from the blurb, y’all. When I saw he had feelings since he first SAW HER? Yeah, I had to read it early.
Brianna laid out such a raw view of navigating grief, guilt, and healing. Some of the deepest heartaches this side of heaven happened to Emory young. I couldn’t even fathom how it would feel IRL because it hasn’t happened to me. I adored her quirkiness, resiliency, and love for her people, especially Molly, as she navigated her daily life. She was a top tier FMC!
Jordan, Jordan, Jordan- you sweet, cinnamon roll, biker, tatted stud!!! Whatta man. He wasn’t perfect, and he owned up to those mistakes. How he showed up for his girls? THE BEST!!! 🥰🤩 He couldn’t change the past, but his continual presence and support for Molly and Emory spoke volumes to them. His relationship with Molly was one of my favorite parts of the story, and that epilogue was beautiful. If we don’t get a second-gen series, I’m going to be shocked!!
The Honey Hill gossips were back at it, and that PTA was nonsense lol. The drama was real, I love good small-town antics and hilarity, and this read delivered that!
Love-after-loss stories always stick with me way after I read them. I know this romcom absolutely will too. You should read this book if you enjoy hope, healing, and a really sweet HEA. 💃🏼
Thanks for the early copy, Brianna! All thoughts are my own and no positive review was required. 🫶🏻
CW: This is a closed door romance with non-descriptive makeouts and no language. There’s mention of loss of parents and spouses, grief, and a slap to the face lol.
Emory and Jordan had me from the blurb, y’all. When I saw he had feelings since he first SAW HER? Yeah, I had to read it early.
Brianna laid out such a raw view of navigating grief, guilt, and healing. Some of the deepest heartaches this side of heaven happened to Emory young. I couldn’t even fathom how it would feel IRL because it hasn’t happened to me. I adored her quirkiness, resiliency, and love for her people, especially Molly, as she navigated her daily life. She was a top tier FMC!
Jordan, Jordan, Jordan- you sweet, cinnamon roll, biker, tatted stud!!! Whatta man. He wasn’t perfect, and he owned up to those mistakes. How he showed up for his girls? THE BEST!!! 🥰🤩 He couldn’t change the past, but his continual presence and support for Molly and Emory spoke volumes to them. His relationship with Molly was one of my favorite parts of the story, and that epilogue was beautiful. If we don’t get a second-gen series, I’m going to be shocked!!
The Honey Hill gossips were back at it, and that PTA was nonsense lol. The drama was real, I love good small-town antics and hilarity, and this read delivered that!
Love-after-loss stories always stick with me way after I read them. I know this romcom absolutely will too. You should read this book if you enjoy hope, healing, and a really sweet HEA. 💃🏼
Thanks for the early copy, Brianna! All thoughts are my own and no positive review was required. 🫶🏻
CW: This is a closed door romance with non-descriptive makeouts and no language. There’s mention of loss of parents and spouses, grief, and a slap to the face lol.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"In many ways, the farm looks exactly like it’s portrayed online. Much like the photos I’ve studied in my deepest moments of homesickness, the property is all rolling hills covered in fields of grass and lavender and a winding, well-worn dirt road that I know will lead me to the main house. But there are signs of the passage of time as well. Things that haven’t been updated on Purple Pasture’s website or on the old land listing that I may—or may not—have bookmarked on my laptop. The lavender is overgrown in many of the fields farther out from the house, not in the clean rows you’d expect of a farm this size. Even at a cursory glance, it’s evident the fences haven’t been tended to in a while, and the barn I helped raise over ten years ago has certainly seen better days. And the ridiculous, purple-painted silo, though fading, still stands out like a sore thumb against the clear blue sky."
When his best friend died suddenly, Jordan left town, leaving his expectant widow behind. After a decade had passed, he is finally returning. And Emory is not so sure she wants to see him again.
Keeping her late husband's hobby farm dream alive has been taxing. And raising her daughter as a single mom is challenging yet fulfilling. Asking for help is not in her nature. But will she finally realize that others want to support her too?
I really enjoyed this book! This is book 3 in the "Happy in Honey Hill" series. I would call it a contemporary romance with comedy and heart. The characters are connected to ones in several of the author's other books.
I did get to read an early copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
When his best friend died suddenly, Jordan left town, leaving his expectant widow behind. After a decade had passed, he is finally returning. And Emory is not so sure she wants to see him again.
Keeping her late husband's hobby farm dream alive has been taxing. And raising her daughter as a single mom is challenging yet fulfilling. Asking for help is not in her nature. But will she finally realize that others want to support her too?
I really enjoyed this book! This is book 3 in the "Happy in Honey Hill" series. I would call it a contemporary romance with comedy and heart. The characters are connected to ones in several of the author's other books.
I did get to read an early copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
August 17, 2026
RomCom novels are a genre that I have come to really enjoy over the last year. A Lot Like Lavendar by B.R. Goodwin is Book 3 in the Happy in Honey Hill series. I have not read the first 2 books in this series, although the book seems to read smooth as a stand alone.
The storyline was very captivating from the beginning and I could not put the book down until I was done. The main Characters in the book are Emory Nelson, a widowed Mom, and Jordon Love. Emory is dealing with the death of her husband James, becoming a widow at 22 yrs old isn't easy. Emory has a lot on her plate: raising her daughter, being a part of the Honey Hill PTA, caring for the Alpacas. Emory is truly hanging onto to hope that things will turn around for her life. Jordon Love, was Jame's Best Friend and he has been struggling with his death also. Jordan regrets many past decisions, including not staying in Honey Hill to protect Emory and her daughter after Jame's death. He has now returned 10 years later and is hoping that Emory will forgive him for abandoning Emory when Jame's died. Jordan felt he needed to deal with the loss of his best friend on his own, although staying away from Honey Hill for 10 years wasn't exactly what he thought he would do. I really LOVE how Emory and Jordan reconnect and they were able to go through healing together. Jordan realizing that he should have done the right thing for his friend and stayed in Honey Hill to care for Emory. My heart was warmed by the way Jordan and Emory's daughter connected and Jordan really took on a role that was never there for Emory's daughter. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys RomCom Genre. GREAT BOOK!
The storyline was very captivating from the beginning and I could not put the book down until I was done. The main Characters in the book are Emory Nelson, a widowed Mom, and Jordon Love. Emory is dealing with the death of her husband James, becoming a widow at 22 yrs old isn't easy. Emory has a lot on her plate: raising her daughter, being a part of the Honey Hill PTA, caring for the Alpacas. Emory is truly hanging onto to hope that things will turn around for her life. Jordon Love, was Jame's Best Friend and he has been struggling with his death also. Jordan regrets many past decisions, including not staying in Honey Hill to protect Emory and her daughter after Jame's death. He has now returned 10 years later and is hoping that Emory will forgive him for abandoning Emory when Jame's died. Jordan felt he needed to deal with the loss of his best friend on his own, although staying away from Honey Hill for 10 years wasn't exactly what he thought he would do. I really LOVE how Emory and Jordan reconnect and they were able to go through healing together. Jordan realizing that he should have done the right thing for his friend and stayed in Honey Hill to care for Emory. My heart was warmed by the way Jordan and Emory's daughter connected and Jordan really took on a role that was never there for Emory's daughter. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys RomCom Genre. GREAT BOOK!
August 3, 2026
A Lot Like Lavender is a different kind of clean romcom. Though it has plenty of Goodwin’s endearing humor, it is centered around a story of loss. Emery‘s husband died 10 years ago while she was pregnant, leaving her to raise their daughter Molly, and take care of their lavender and alpaca farm by herself.
Emory and her husband’s best friend Jordan disappeared soon after her husband‘s death and now he’s returned. It was sweet to watch Jordan earn Emory’s forgiveness for leaving them and find a place in Molly‘s heart. He’s a cinnamon roll hero who jumps in and provides for, protects, and is emotionally there for Emery and Molly.
As mentioned before, this story tackles loss and Goodwin does an amazing job of exploring the emotions both Emery and Jordan have gone through from losing Emery’s husband. It pulled me into the roller coaster of emotions.
This is a clean, kisses only story. There is a shared bed scene where nothing is implied other than comfort in dealing with grief, and the main characters sleep on the sofa together—again with nothing implied but comfort.
This is book 3 in the Happy in Honey Hill Series filled with small town character, wit, and banter . A Lot Like Lavender can be read as a standalone, but it’s fun to revisit characters and see how they are related. Though this book has some references to faith in characters’ lives, it’s not marketed as Christian fiction. I love B.R.’s brand of mixing humor with more serious topics and highly recommended this book.
Emory and her husband’s best friend Jordan disappeared soon after her husband‘s death and now he’s returned. It was sweet to watch Jordan earn Emory’s forgiveness for leaving them and find a place in Molly‘s heart. He’s a cinnamon roll hero who jumps in and provides for, protects, and is emotionally there for Emery and Molly.
As mentioned before, this story tackles loss and Goodwin does an amazing job of exploring the emotions both Emery and Jordan have gone through from losing Emery’s husband. It pulled me into the roller coaster of emotions.
This is a clean, kisses only story. There is a shared bed scene where nothing is implied other than comfort in dealing with grief, and the main characters sleep on the sofa together—again with nothing implied but comfort.
This is book 3 in the Happy in Honey Hill Series filled with small town character, wit, and banter . A Lot Like Lavender can be read as a standalone, but it’s fun to revisit characters and see how they are related. Though this book has some references to faith in characters’ lives, it’s not marketed as Christian fiction. I love B.R.’s brand of mixing humor with more serious topics and highly recommended this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have adored every single book I have read by B.R. Goodwin... but this one might just be my new favorite! Jordan and Emory's story very quickly had my heart. They had been through a lot following the loss of her husband/his best friend... and his immediate departure after. Needless to say, she was not thrilled to see him again after ten years but these two had such a great connection, and I loved seeing that healing between them. Their chemistry was great, of course, but it was also the way that he cared not just for her, but for her daughter as well that was really beautiful. I think romances involving a spouse that has passed can be really tricky to not make it feel like they are being replaced or that this new romance was their one true love... and adding the layer of him being that husband's best friend could certainly make it trickier, but this one truly was done beautifully. Their romance was emotional and sweet... but not without those laugh out loud moments that I've come to expect from B.R. Goodwin's romcoms. This one (and the series as a whole) is definitely a must read!
A Lot Like Lavender is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Happy in Honey Hill series but could probably be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
A Lot Like Lavender is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Happy in Honey Hill series but could probably be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I flew through this! If you want a friends to more, emotional, romantic read... this is the one for you!
Jordan is back in town after years away after the death of his best friend. He’s been running away from his grief for years, but now he needs to face the outcome... Emory and her daughter, his late friend’s wife and daughter. He owes them an apology. When James passed away he was meant to stick around and help them, but instead he ran away, and Emory has clearly not forgiven him. Now he’s back trying to make up for leaving, trying to help her, and fighting the feelings he’s had for her all along. Emory is mad at Jordan for disappearing when she needed him most, but she also hates how drawn to him she still feels and that her daughter instantly loves him. They have chemistry, they have a shared past... but is a future possible?
Jordan was super swoony and the whole time I was envisioning what the real version of him would look like, lol. I totally understood why Jack found his shirtless breakfast moments annoying. This book definitely had me laughing, tearing up, and swooning over the sweet moments between Jordan, Emory, and Molly. Loved this!
I gave this a 4.5 rounded up to a 5!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Jordan is back in town after years away after the death of his best friend. He’s been running away from his grief for years, but now he needs to face the outcome... Emory and her daughter, his late friend’s wife and daughter. He owes them an apology. When James passed away he was meant to stick around and help them, but instead he ran away, and Emory has clearly not forgiven him. Now he’s back trying to make up for leaving, trying to help her, and fighting the feelings he’s had for her all along. Emory is mad at Jordan for disappearing when she needed him most, but she also hates how drawn to him she still feels and that her daughter instantly loves him. They have chemistry, they have a shared past... but is a future possible?
Jordan was super swoony and the whole time I was envisioning what the real version of him would look like, lol. I totally understood why Jack found his shirtless breakfast moments annoying. This book definitely had me laughing, tearing up, and swooning over the sweet moments between Jordan, Emory, and Molly. Loved this!
I gave this a 4.5 rounded up to a 5!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely my favorite book even though it’s the final book in the series and I’m super sad to see it end. I loved all these beautiful characters with this emotional charged story. Emory lost her husband to 10 years ago and she’s still grieving that loss. Now, Jordan comes back to town and into her life, she’s not exactly welcoming. Emory is angry at Jordan for leaving them behind when their best friend, her husband & child’s father passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. She felt so abandoned even though she had Dinah her sister. Jordan is back in Honey Hill to work for her parents’ vet until he can find a more permanent job, but as time goes on and he spends time with Emory and her daughter, Molly. He realizes just how much he needs them as much as they need him. I loved the sweet and funny antics of several of the characters. As always, I love seeing Dinah and Jack. They have their own little moments in this book which makes it sweet. I will be going back to this book forever, it was imprinted on my heart. The only other thing I can say without spoilers is I love Jordan and Molly’s relationship. Absolutely precious 🥰.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I felt this story deeply. The emotion that Brianna wrote with was beautiful. I had unshed tears in my eyes through a lot of this book because it’s so relatable. Grief. Loss. Moving on. Finding your happy & light again. So real and relatable.
I read the last 60% in one morning - I couldn’t put it down. Definitely a quick and easy read!
As Emory & Jordan’s story unfolds, the care and respect used in regards to James was beautiful. Molly is precious and her immediate love for Jordan was the sweetest. I loved Jordan’s love for James and his care and “drop everything” for Emory. I loved the tattoos, his Mom and Step Dad, Emory’s sister and friends. Gosh, such a sweet group of characters.
Friends to more and single parent tropes are my top 2 favorites so reading these together was perfection in my eyes!!!
I think this might be the best Honey Hill book yet!
This is a great book for anyone who loves:
- Closed door romance (kisses only)
- Christian fiction
- second chance love
- found family
- single parent tropes
- friends to more
- small town community
- alpacas, farm animals
- love after loss
- hilarious humor
It is such a treat to get to read this early as an ARC. I’m so thankful I had the chance!!! All opinions and thoughts are my own.
I read the last 60% in one morning - I couldn’t put it down. Definitely a quick and easy read!
As Emory & Jordan’s story unfolds, the care and respect used in regards to James was beautiful. Molly is precious and her immediate love for Jordan was the sweetest. I loved Jordan’s love for James and his care and “drop everything” for Emory. I loved the tattoos, his Mom and Step Dad, Emory’s sister and friends. Gosh, such a sweet group of characters.
Friends to more and single parent tropes are my top 2 favorites so reading these together was perfection in my eyes!!!
I think this might be the best Honey Hill book yet!
This is a great book for anyone who loves:
- Closed door romance (kisses only)
- Christian fiction
- second chance love
- found family
- single parent tropes
- friends to more
- small town community
- alpacas, farm animals
- love after loss
- hilarious humor
It is such a treat to get to read this early as an ARC. I’m so thankful I had the chance!!! All opinions and thoughts are my own.
August 12, 2026
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🫑
“It’s funny what ten years can do to a person. How time and life shape each of us so differently, leaving behind glimpses of who we were at ten, fifteen, and twenty but evolving us into completely new beings. It’s survival adaptation. The physiological, sociological, and every day behaviors we have to change so that we can simply live. Breathe. Exist.”
First off, Ms. Goodwin, did in fact, make me shed multiple tears on an airplane.. in front of strangers!! So kudos to her because that’s no easy feat 😂! This book was so raw with emotion I’m not sure how you could read it and not shed a few. A widow, an ex best friend, nosy and loving family, and the cute little townsfolk of Honey Hill make this one hard to put down.
A Lot Like Lavender shows us the good, the bad, and the ugly of love, loss, survival, and redemption. Beautifully showcasing God’s never ending love, grace, consistency, and His power to get us through any and all circumstances, this one is a must read. Two people just trying to figure out who they are, both separate and together, while navigating tough conversations and big life events.. Emory and Jordan have their work cut out for them.
Don’t worry.. it’s mostly happy tears and plenty of belly laughs… can anyone say placenta soup?!?! 😂☠️🤣
“It’s funny what ten years can do to a person. How time and life shape each of us so differently, leaving behind glimpses of who we were at ten, fifteen, and twenty but evolving us into completely new beings. It’s survival adaptation. The physiological, sociological, and every day behaviors we have to change so that we can simply live. Breathe. Exist.”
First off, Ms. Goodwin, did in fact, make me shed multiple tears on an airplane.. in front of strangers!! So kudos to her because that’s no easy feat 😂! This book was so raw with emotion I’m not sure how you could read it and not shed a few. A widow, an ex best friend, nosy and loving family, and the cute little townsfolk of Honey Hill make this one hard to put down.
A Lot Like Lavender shows us the good, the bad, and the ugly of love, loss, survival, and redemption. Beautifully showcasing God’s never ending love, grace, consistency, and His power to get us through any and all circumstances, this one is a must read. Two people just trying to figure out who they are, both separate and together, while navigating tough conversations and big life events.. Emory and Jordan have their work cut out for them.
Don’t worry.. it’s mostly happy tears and plenty of belly laughs… can anyone say placenta soup?!?! 😂☠️🤣
August 18, 2026
Although this is book 3 of author B.R. Goodwin’s Happy in Honey Hill series, I haven’t read the other two and didn’t have any trouble following it.
Light hearted moments are woven throughout the hard things that characters Emory and Jordan are walking through. Life isn’t all rainbows and lollipops but Goodwin did a good job of keeping reality from being heavy. And talk about quirky. I was laughing at Emory while I was feeling sorry for her loss and the trials that came with it. And Jordan was just sweet. He built a great relationship with Emory’s daughter, Molly, that will give you several “awwww” moments. Oh, and we can’t forget the PTA. They are crazy ladies.
I love small town settings and farms. Give me rural over big city every day. And while I enjoyed A Lot Like Lavender, I will say it felt very frenetic to me. I kept taking breaks so I could breathe. There were a few other things that I didn’t agree with but I understand we’re all different and we all have different values. Nothing terrible, just not me. That all being said, do give the book a read. If you enjoy clean, contemporary romance then you’ll enjoy A Lot Like Lavender.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
Light hearted moments are woven throughout the hard things that characters Emory and Jordan are walking through. Life isn’t all rainbows and lollipops but Goodwin did a good job of keeping reality from being heavy. And talk about quirky. I was laughing at Emory while I was feeling sorry for her loss and the trials that came with it. And Jordan was just sweet. He built a great relationship with Emory’s daughter, Molly, that will give you several “awwww” moments. Oh, and we can’t forget the PTA. They are crazy ladies.
I love small town settings and farms. Give me rural over big city every day. And while I enjoyed A Lot Like Lavender, I will say it felt very frenetic to me. I kept taking breaks so I could breathe. There were a few other things that I didn’t agree with but I understand we’re all different and we all have different values. Nothing terrible, just not me. That all being said, do give the book a read. If you enjoy clean, contemporary romance then you’ll enjoy A Lot Like Lavender.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
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