What do you think?
Rate this book
Us #1
The Road That Leads To Us
Things are about to get rocky for Dean Wentworth and Willow Wade.
Willow Wade is used to living in the spotlight, with her father a famous drummer in the band Willow Creek—her namesake—it’s been a lot to live up to and oftentimes she doesn’t feel she’s enough. But there has always been one person she could turn to.
Dean Wentworth knows a thing or two about how crippling a name can be. His family is worth billions after all. But Dean’s always been content to do his own thing. Play his guitar. Work on cars. And geek out to his various “nerdoms”.
But when Willow turns up unexpectedly, he realizes maybe there is more in life he wants.
Her.
One trip will change their lives forever.
Willow Wade is used to living in the spotlight, with her father a famous drummer in the band Willow Creek—her namesake—it’s been a lot to live up to and oftentimes she doesn’t feel she’s enough. But there has always been one person she could turn to.
Dean Wentworth knows a thing or two about how crippling a name can be. His family is worth billions after all. But Dean’s always been content to do his own thing. Play his guitar. Work on cars. And geek out to his various “nerdoms”.
But when Willow turns up unexpectedly, he realizes maybe there is more in life he wants.
Her.
One trip will change their lives forever.
486 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2015
221 people are currently reading
1923 people want to read
About the author
Micalea Smeltzer
82 books6,685 followersMicalea Smeltzer is an author from Northern Virginia. Her two dogs, Ollie and Remy, are her constant companions. As a kidney transplant recipient she's dedicated to raising awareness around the effects of kidney disease, dialysis, and transplant as well as educating people on living donation. When she's not writing you can catch her with her nose buried in a book.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
August 12, 2016
3.5
I am huge fan of Micalea Smeltzer. She writes fantastic sweet low angst new adult read. I enjoyed The Road That Leads To Us but at times I felt the plot dragged a bit. Overall though I think if you enjoyed her Willow Creek series you will enjoy this one.
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any couple separation
Any push/pull
Angst Level: Low
Heat Level: Low
I am huge fan of Micalea Smeltzer. She writes fantastic sweet low angst new adult read. I enjoyed The Road That Leads To Us but at times I felt the plot dragged a bit. Overall though I think if you enjoyed her Willow Creek series you will enjoy this one.
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any couple separation
Any push/pull
Angst Level: Low
Heat Level: Low
November 2, 2015
YA genre with a cute couple who take a summer road trip and find that their life-long friendship means much more to both of them than they've ever admitted to each other. Lots of crazy summer road fun and entertaining lines of dialogue, along with sweet romance that keeps the heat in the shadows.
This is the first book in a new series that will continue with the second installment in early 2016.
This is the first book in a new series that will continue with the second installment in early 2016.
August 25, 2016
3.5 stars
January 1, 2016
This 3.5 stars review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews
If you have been a follower of Micalea for a long time then you know that this book has the son of Trace and Olivia Wentworth from the Trace + Olivia series and the daughter of Willow Creek's lead singer Maddox and his wife Emma Wade from the Willow Creek series. Many of you know I was distraught to be saying goodbye to the Willow Creek series because I adored those characters like no other. They will forever live in my heart.
Dean and Willow's Epic Road Trip starts now. [...] No plan. No directions. No limitations. [...] Anywhere. Nowhere. Everywhere.
Willow wants to go on a road trip with her friends but sadly, they bail at the last-minute and she goes to her very close family friend and childhood friend, Dean. She rants to him of what her friends did and Dean suggests to go on the road trip with her.
It took me a while to get into this story and I was surprised since I love Micalea's work. Once I got into it, I started liking it a lot.
What I loved:
1. I love Dean and Willow's friendship. I loved their friendship so much more than the romance. Once the romance started settling in, I was put off for the majority of the book and I will mention why further on in the review. But we are in the positive section so we are staying positive! I really liked the banter these two would have and they made things really interesting.
2. I loved Dean's disposition to help Willow out. You'd think I would stop my life to go on a road trip? Let's face it, the answer is HELL YES if I had the money Dean has obviously. If not, "Sayonara my friend but I can't go." Any who, he put his life on hold to go with Willow and just spend time with her.
3. Willow's obsession with lollipops reminds me of my obsession with Nutella bread-sticks and gummy sharks! It was really cute to read about Willow's extreme obsession. It made me feel like I'm not alone! Our obsessions will give us both diabetes if we continue to not have a moderated eating habit of these sugary deliciousness.
4. I loved how they would plan which place to visit next and it was something that I'd love to do... If I had lots and lots of gas money. They would close their eyes and point somewhere on the map and head there using only the map. No GPS whatsoever and that's where the fun really begins.
5. I mostly loved reading about Maddox and Emma at the age of 45 and I got so many feels! It seemed like just at the beginning of the year I was reading about them when they were 18-years-old ;) (Micalea has published 5 books already this year of 2015 and she's only 22-years old!)
6. My book boyfriend's son was introduced: Liam Wade ladies and gentlemen!! Mathias and Remy Wade had a son in the Willow Creek series and reading about him here reminds me of Mathias when he was young and ahhhh! I'm in love. The next book in the series will be about Liam and I am beyond intrigued! The reader gets a little bit of a background on Liam's life, which opens up for the following book in the series.
7. Willow's struggle with staying in college or dropping out of college. Why did I love that? It was mostly because I could relate. Willow is struggling to make this tough choice because she realizes college life isn't for her, at least for now but she's scared her parents will not like the news. I could relate a lot to this because I realized in my Senior year of college that I don't want to major in what I've been majoring and it's been killing me with finishing my studies, just as Willow struggles to stay or drop out. This gave a sense of reality to the story seeing as many people feel like Willow do and it is portrayed very well in this story.
What I disliked didn't like (I feel like dislike is such a strong word):
1. Dean and Willow's romance was... Not believable. I felt it was forced and kind of insta-lovey. This insta-love didn't happen as soon as the story started. It was already way into the story but their realization that they loved each other was instant and I couldn't really grasp it.
2. For some reason, I wasn't buying Willow's personality. It's like everything she said or did felt forced, like she was trying to be someone else and it took me a long while to warm up to her.
3. Something I hadn't fully noticed until a friend of mine pointed it out was how descriptive this book is. Now, this isn't a turn off on many books but this book had a new level of being descriptive that was slightly a turn off.
As you can see, I really enjoyed reading this story but the stuff I didn't like were very strong and it lead me to lower my rating of this book. I still have high hopes for this series because this happened to me with Last To Know, which is the first book in the Willow Creek series. I didn't fully love it but the rest of the books I completely adored!
I really recommend everyone to read Willow Creek series before starting this book because you will understand many things that were mentioned in this. You can still read this book without have to read the series I mentioned above.
This 3.5 stars review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews
If you have been a follower of Micalea for a long time then you know that this book has the son of Trace and Olivia Wentworth from the Trace + Olivia series and the daughter of Willow Creek's lead singer Maddox and his wife Emma Wade from the Willow Creek series. Many of you know I was distraught to be saying goodbye to the Willow Creek series because I adored those characters like no other. They will forever live in my heart.
Dean and Willow's Epic Road Trip starts now. [...] No plan. No directions. No limitations. [...] Anywhere. Nowhere. Everywhere.
Willow wants to go on a road trip with her friends but sadly, they bail at the last-minute and she goes to her very close family friend and childhood friend, Dean. She rants to him of what her friends did and Dean suggests to go on the road trip with her.
It took me a while to get into this story and I was surprised since I love Micalea's work. Once I got into it, I started liking it a lot.
What I loved:
1. I love Dean and Willow's friendship. I loved their friendship so much more than the romance. Once the romance started settling in, I was put off for the majority of the book and I will mention why further on in the review. But we are in the positive section so we are staying positive! I really liked the banter these two would have and they made things really interesting.
2. I loved Dean's disposition to help Willow out. You'd think I would stop my life to go on a road trip? Let's face it, the answer is HELL YES if I had the money Dean has obviously. If not, "Sayonara my friend but I can't go." Any who, he put his life on hold to go with Willow and just spend time with her.
3. Willow's obsession with lollipops reminds me of my obsession with Nutella bread-sticks and gummy sharks! It was really cute to read about Willow's extreme obsession. It made me feel like I'm not alone! Our obsessions will give us both diabetes if we continue to not have a moderated eating habit of these sugary deliciousness.
4. I loved how they would plan which place to visit next and it was something that I'd love to do... If I had lots and lots of gas money. They would close their eyes and point somewhere on the map and head there using only the map. No GPS whatsoever and that's where the fun really begins.
5. I mostly loved reading about Maddox and Emma at the age of 45 and I got so many feels! It seemed like just at the beginning of the year I was reading about them when they were 18-years-old ;) (Micalea has published 5 books already this year of 2015 and she's only 22-years old!)
6. My book boyfriend's son was introduced: Liam Wade ladies and gentlemen!! Mathias and Remy Wade had a son in the Willow Creek series and reading about him here reminds me of Mathias when he was young and ahhhh! I'm in love. The next book in the series will be about Liam and I am beyond intrigued! The reader gets a little bit of a background on Liam's life, which opens up for the following book in the series.
7. Willow's struggle with staying in college or dropping out of college. Why did I love that? It was mostly because I could relate. Willow is struggling to make this tough choice because she realizes college life isn't for her, at least for now but she's scared her parents will not like the news. I could relate a lot to this because I realized in my Senior year of college that I don't want to major in what I've been majoring and it's been killing me with finishing my studies, just as Willow struggles to stay or drop out. This gave a sense of reality to the story seeing as many people feel like Willow do and it is portrayed very well in this story.
What I disliked didn't like (I feel like dislike is such a strong word):
1. Dean and Willow's romance was... Not believable. I felt it was forced and kind of insta-lovey. This insta-love didn't happen as soon as the story started. It was already way into the story but their realization that they loved each other was instant and I couldn't really grasp it.
2. For some reason, I wasn't buying Willow's personality. It's like everything she said or did felt forced, like she was trying to be someone else and it took me a long while to warm up to her.
3. Something I hadn't fully noticed until a friend of mine pointed it out was how descriptive this book is. Now, this isn't a turn off on many books but this book had a new level of being descriptive that was slightly a turn off.
As you can see, I really enjoyed reading this story but the stuff I didn't like were very strong and it lead me to lower my rating of this book. I still have high hopes for this series because this happened to me with Last To Know, which is the first book in the Willow Creek series. I didn't fully love it but the rest of the books I completely adored!
I really recommend everyone to read Willow Creek series before starting this book because you will understand many things that were mentioned in this. You can still read this book without have to read the series I mentioned above.
This 3.5 stars review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews
November 1, 2015
The Road That Leads To Us is a fantastic first novel for Micalea Smeltzer’s new Us Series! This book epitomizes the New Adult genre, full of growing pains, new adventures, uncertainty, self-discovery and falling in love. Dean and Willow’s road trip was so much fun. These two have an entertaining friendship that embraced their nerdy and bizarre personalities, allowing both of them to be exactly who they are. I loved how genuine their friendship felt, made unshakeable by their total acceptance of one another. This open and honest foundation laid the groundwork for a chemistry that was simply inevitable. The second Micalea began to let the sparks fly between Dean and Willow, their feelings ignited into something epic. They balanced each other and pushed each other to grow and live and laugh and love, resulting in an adventure that was full of feels and important life lessons. Micalea Smeltzer’s writing felt absolutely effortless, allowing me to lose myself completely in her sweet story and vibrant characters.
These characters make my heart melt! I fell hard for Dean in no time. I loved how down to earth, humble, kind, and perfectly weird he was. He won me over with his well-timed wisdom, limitless patience, and unwavering support of Willow. He made me laugh and swoon, wishing I could give him a giant hug. Micalea Smeltzer wrote this character to be truly one-of-a-kind and he has certainly made a lasting impression. Willow did so much growing over the course of this novel and her personal journey really resonated with me. Her struggle to figure out the future and find what makes her happy is something we can all relate to and Micalea Smeltzer wasn’t afraid to let us glimpse her moments of vulnerability. Willow was so quirky, adventurous, and full of life, making me grin with her crazy antics and free spirit, but it was the instances where her uncertainty and fear of the future became apparent that made me connect with this character on a deeper level. She became someone tangible and totally relatable and that is what made her so special.
The concept of this story is really quite perfect for a New Adult novel. Road Trips are a time for broadening your horizons and experiencing new things, the ideal setting for a journey of self-discovery and evolving emotions. Each random stop along the way added to the unpredictable and uninhibited feeling of this book and made sense with these unconventional characters. Fans of Micalea Smeltzer’s Trace + Olivia Series and Willow Creek Series will love seeing the whole family together. The Road That Leads To Us made me laugh and roll my eyes at some of the absolutely ridiculous behaviors, but it also had its serious moments of contemplation and nostalgia that touched me unexpectedly. The Road That Leads To Us is very much the beginning of something exciting. Willow and Dean’s story is far from over but Micalea Smeltzer made sure their time in the spotlight felt real and right and full of life.
These characters make my heart melt! I fell hard for Dean in no time. I loved how down to earth, humble, kind, and perfectly weird he was. He won me over with his well-timed wisdom, limitless patience, and unwavering support of Willow. He made me laugh and swoon, wishing I could give him a giant hug. Micalea Smeltzer wrote this character to be truly one-of-a-kind and he has certainly made a lasting impression. Willow did so much growing over the course of this novel and her personal journey really resonated with me. Her struggle to figure out the future and find what makes her happy is something we can all relate to and Micalea Smeltzer wasn’t afraid to let us glimpse her moments of vulnerability. Willow was so quirky, adventurous, and full of life, making me grin with her crazy antics and free spirit, but it was the instances where her uncertainty and fear of the future became apparent that made me connect with this character on a deeper level. She became someone tangible and totally relatable and that is what made her so special.
The concept of this story is really quite perfect for a New Adult novel. Road Trips are a time for broadening your horizons and experiencing new things, the ideal setting for a journey of self-discovery and evolving emotions. Each random stop along the way added to the unpredictable and uninhibited feeling of this book and made sense with these unconventional characters. Fans of Micalea Smeltzer’s Trace + Olivia Series and Willow Creek Series will love seeing the whole family together. The Road That Leads To Us made me laugh and roll my eyes at some of the absolutely ridiculous behaviors, but it also had its serious moments of contemplation and nostalgia that touched me unexpectedly. The Road That Leads To Us is very much the beginning of something exciting. Willow and Dean’s story is far from over but Micalea Smeltzer made sure their time in the spotlight felt real and right and full of life.
May 23, 2016
Originally posted on Le Book Chronicles Blog
I've always said I love the whole "friend to more" trope in books, however recently every one I have read I haven't actually enjoyed. The Road That Leads to Us started out very promising. It was a little cheesey at first, but I was enjoying it a lot.
I loved the road trip, it was very "Amy and Roger's Epic Detour" esque. They even named their journal "Willow and Deans Epic Road Trip" so I was thinking that was a bit... coincidental?
The characters were funny, they had a really good relationship with each other and it was just enjoyable to read. But then, they got together, and I now understand why the characters normally get together at the end of the book, not at the start. Because after Dean and Willow got together at about half way, the whole book became one big stack of cheese. It was so cheesy it was cringe-worthy at times and I just couldn't. I mean I did, because I finished the book but I couldn't handle the cheesy-ness.
There was one part that I found to be particularly cringe-worthy where Dean and Willow are at a laundromat and they forgot to get washing powder, so Willow asks some random old man to borrow some of his and she gives him a kiss on the cheek?! Like what even? WHy? That was weird. But then he started telling her his god damn life story and they all ended up going out to dinner together and exchanging phone numbers and.. I just... no. That's weird.
I also found the book to be very repetitive. The amount of times Dean and at times Dean and Willow's voices were kind of similar. I liked that it was alternate P.O.V as I think it helped add to the story though.
It was a little bit insta-lovey type, as they were "in -love" only a week into the road trip. However, they have been friends for like 19 years so I let that slide.
My other issue is with the characters, particularly Willow because she was so immature! They are meant to be 19 (Willow) and 21 (Dean), but I would have thought they were still in high school. I don't like when characters put up a persona and can't be serious for 5 minutes without trying to lighten the mood, and Willow was the perfect example of this. I don't think she even developed at all, besides for figuring out what she wanted to do with college and such.
So overall, not the best book I have read. it was a decent road trip book and I liked how spontaneous and adventurous it was, but having said that, the characters were kind of annoying, and the book was way too cheesy in the second half. I do think it would have been AWESOME if it included receipts and photos and such in the book,
Would I recommend? If you want a really cheesy road trip romance, yes.
For fans of: Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
Overall Rating: 3/5
I've always said I love the whole "friend to more" trope in books, however recently every one I have read I haven't actually enjoyed. The Road That Leads to Us started out very promising. It was a little cheesey at first, but I was enjoying it a lot.
I loved the road trip, it was very "Amy and Roger's Epic Detour" esque. They even named their journal "Willow and Deans Epic Road Trip" so I was thinking that was a bit... coincidental?
The characters were funny, they had a really good relationship with each other and it was just enjoyable to read. But then, they got together, and I now understand why the characters normally get together at the end of the book, not at the start. Because after Dean and Willow got together at about half way, the whole book became one big stack of cheese. It was so cheesy it was cringe-worthy at times and I just couldn't. I mean I did, because I finished the book but I couldn't handle the cheesy-ness.
There was one part that I found to be particularly cringe-worthy where Dean and Willow are at a laundromat and they forgot to get washing powder, so Willow asks some random old man to borrow some of his and she gives him a kiss on the cheek?! Like what even? WHy? That was weird. But then he started telling her his god damn life story and they all ended up going out to dinner together and exchanging phone numbers and.. I just... no. That's weird.
I also found the book to be very repetitive. The amount of times Dean and at times Dean and Willow's voices were kind of similar. I liked that it was alternate P.O.V as I think it helped add to the story though.
It was a little bit insta-lovey type, as they were "in -love" only a week into the road trip. However, they have been friends for like 19 years so I let that slide.
My other issue is with the characters, particularly Willow because she was so immature! They are meant to be 19 (Willow) and 21 (Dean), but I would have thought they were still in high school. I don't like when characters put up a persona and can't be serious for 5 minutes without trying to lighten the mood, and Willow was the perfect example of this. I don't think she even developed at all, besides for figuring out what she wanted to do with college and such.
So overall, not the best book I have read. it was a decent road trip book and I liked how spontaneous and adventurous it was, but having said that, the characters were kind of annoying, and the book was way too cheesy in the second half. I do think it would have been AWESOME if it included receipts and photos and such in the book,
Would I recommend? If you want a really cheesy road trip romance, yes.
For fans of: Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
Overall Rating: 3/5
October 14, 2015
Maddox he hasn't changed much boy is still cray cray, “it’s like you’re all conspiring against me,” he muttered. “I can’t trust any of you. At least I have my hedgehogs.” He stroked the quills of Amy. “They would never betray me this way.” Dean's woman sure has a way with coming up with names:
“Hot Buns?” I repeated in disbelief.
She shrugged and sat back with a smirk on her lips. “You have a nice a**. It seemed fitting.”
I snorted. “You’ve been checking out my a**?”
“Like I said, it’s nice.”
I really enjoyed this book I loved seeing the kids grown up.
“Hot Buns?” I repeated in disbelief.
She shrugged and sat back with a smirk on her lips. “You have a nice a**. It seemed fitting.”
I snorted. “You’ve been checking out my a**?”
“Like I said, it’s nice.”
I really enjoyed this book I loved seeing the kids grown up.
October 16, 2015
This is my 5 wonderful star review for The Road That Leads To Us by Micalea Smeltzer. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I've pretty much read all of Micaleas books so far, so I was so ecstatic when I knew I was getting an ARC. Micalea is one of my favourite authors and she never disappoints with her fantastic stories. I can always expect dynamic characters and a gripping storyline. She achieved it with this one. The Willow Creek was by far the best series I've ever read and I was overjoyed that this book was about their kids. This is about Maddox and Emma's daughter Willow, and Dean who his her childhood best friend.
Willow embarks in a road trip with her best friend Dean. She comes back from college restless and not sure where she wants her path to lead her. Willow his portrayed as a flighty, spontaneous and self centred young women at first. As the story unfolds, you can see that there is more to her than meets the eye. What's on the inside is much more than what's on the surface. She's very sensitive to other people's feelings and needs. She has a big heart. Even if she came from money and fame, she's a down to earth people person. She wants to please. She's spontaneous, funny and tend to exaggerate everything. I really enjoyed her, she was quite entertaining.
Dean is Willows childhood best friend. He's calm, level headed, relaxed and much more grounded then Willow is. They level each other out in the bests of ways. He loves his job as a mechanic even if he comes from money. Dean is a funny, down to earth good guy who lets Willow win at every turn. He grounds her. They embark on a road trip that will lead them to admit and discover their true feelings for each other. They are in love. This road trip is also about self discovery. They want identities apart from their famous parents.
This story was funny, sweet and poignant at times. It was an adventure for the characters and I. Micalea is an amazing writer. Her love and devotion for her stories is astonishing and outstanding. The idea, the concept, the pace and the writing was well thought out. I was entertained for hours. What is perfect also is that the Willow Creek books and this one came out not far from each other.
Micaleas is able to create characters that stand out one from another. I could never forget them even after having finished the book and time as past. These 2 characters were made for each other and there was a deep connexion and chemistry. They really grabbed me and held on throughout the entire story. It's a well written story with characters that are easy to feel some strong connections with.
This story is told from a dual POV. No cliffhanger and an happy ending. Even if it's a standalone I'm glad I read the Willow Creek series first. Some of the characters are mentioned in this book. I strongly recommend this book and all of Micaleas previous books also. Believe me they will be worth your time and money. I can't wait to read Liams story.
October 27, 2015
**ARC received from the author / Give Me Books in exchange for an honest review
4 / 5 stars
The Road That Leads To Us was a sweet journey between Willow Wade and Dean Wentworth. When the both of them embark on a road trip, neither one of them had a clue what was in store for them. Feelings between the two emerge the more these two spend time with each other, and it’s beautiful to watch their dynamics change the more they continue on with their road trip.
Willow is Emma and Maddox daughter. Spunky, full of life, spontaneous, and a bit lost without a clue over what to do with life.
Dean was mellow, accepting, and balanced out Willow’s energetic and wild side. He was nerdy and had no shame about it.
The two of them together were quirky and adorable, and watching the two of them banter and enjoy each others company was such a treat.
I’m looking forward to Liam’s book next along with what the rest of the series has in store.
4 / 5 stars
The Road That Leads To Us was a sweet journey between Willow Wade and Dean Wentworth. When the both of them embark on a road trip, neither one of them had a clue what was in store for them. Feelings between the two emerge the more these two spend time with each other, and it’s beautiful to watch their dynamics change the more they continue on with their road trip.
Willow is Emma and Maddox daughter. Spunky, full of life, spontaneous, and a bit lost without a clue over what to do with life.
Dean was mellow, accepting, and balanced out Willow’s energetic and wild side. He was nerdy and had no shame about it.
The two of them together were quirky and adorable, and watching the two of them banter and enjoy each others company was such a treat.
I’m looking forward to Liam’s book next along with what the rest of the series has in store.
November 25, 2015
Keeping this short(ish):
2 stars because
1) while very sweet, this was also very dull. There's no conflict between the main characters, there's no big bad they have to fight...stuff happened, but it all seemed sorta pointless.
and 2) Neither main character grew on me. The hero I never really liked, but I also never dislike him either...he was just there. The heroine on the other hand...She was supposed to come off as cute and quirky (I think) but there were a few times she came off as self involved and a bit spoiled. It sorta felt like the author was trying to hard to make her wild and crazy, but also super sweet (of course everyone who met her, just loved her!)
Keep in mind this is just how i read it, you could totally mesh with "The Road That Leads to Us", in a way i didn't. I do strongly suggest that if you can, read an excerpt first. If it doesn't pull you in, you may wanna skip this one, altogether.
2 stars because
1) while very sweet, this was also very dull. There's no conflict between the main characters, there's no big bad they have to fight...stuff happened, but it all seemed sorta pointless.
and 2) Neither main character grew on me. The hero I never really liked, but I also never dislike him either...he was just there. The heroine on the other hand...She was supposed to come off as cute and quirky (I think) but there were a few times she came off as self involved and a bit spoiled. It sorta felt like the author was trying to hard to make her wild and crazy, but also super sweet (of course everyone who met her, just loved her!)
Keep in mind this is just how i read it, you could totally mesh with "The Road That Leads to Us", in a way i didn't. I do strongly suggest that if you can, read an excerpt first. If it doesn't pull you in, you may wanna skip this one, altogether.
July 24, 2022
no chemistry, nothing don’t like it
November 26, 2015
“Sometimes the most important things stare us right in the face, waiting until the perfect moment to be noticed. This is our moment.”
The Road That Leads To Us was such a fun read. I am a sucker for a friends to lover’s romance and this one did not disappoint.
The Road That Leads To Us follows the story of Willow and Dean. Willow is at a crossroads in life and isn’t sure if the path that she’s on, is the right plan for her. So, she decides to go on a road trip. However, when her friends bail on her last minute, she ends up returning home, hoping for some clarity as to what move she should make next. Being back home reminds her of just how much she’s missed it and the people she’s left behind; especially when she runs into Dean. Dean and Willow have been best friends for as long as they can remember. They get and understand each other on such a deep level. Their reunion is just what Willow needed; especially when Dean suggests that the two of them go ahead with Willow’s plans for a road trip. Armed with a map and not much else to go on, these two are about to embark on a trip of a lifetime. What the two of them didn’t know, was that this road trip would change their lives in more ways than one…..
The Road That Leads To Us was such a fun read. I found myself laughing out loud so many times. I LOVED seeing Maddox as a father. He was so over the top and protective of Willow. I couldn’t get enough of it. He was the perfect dad! And I really loved spending some time with Maddox and Emma again. Their lives certainly have changed, but in a good way!
One of the things that I loved about this book was that it was really light on the drama. It was so refreshing to read a book where there wasn’t a ton of drama, pulling the characters apart. It was just a fun and entertaining road trip between two good friends. It really reminded me of what it was like to be at the age Willow was at. She had her whole future ahead of her; so many endless possibilities
I absolutely loved the connection between Willow and Dean. You could tell right away that the feelings they had for one another were real and genuine. They had excellent chemistry and shared a lot of sweet, romantic moments.
The Road That Leads To Us was a fantastic read, from start to finish. The story-line was entertaining and captivating. I loved that it was told from dual points of view. And let’s face it, I wasn’t really ready to say goodbye to the Willow Creek clan, so I was really happy to spend more time with them. Even though this is a stand-alone, it is a wonderful addition to the Willow Creek series. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the US Series!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
The Road That Leads To Us was such a fun read. I am a sucker for a friends to lover’s romance and this one did not disappoint.
The Road That Leads To Us follows the story of Willow and Dean. Willow is at a crossroads in life and isn’t sure if the path that she’s on, is the right plan for her. So, she decides to go on a road trip. However, when her friends bail on her last minute, she ends up returning home, hoping for some clarity as to what move she should make next. Being back home reminds her of just how much she’s missed it and the people she’s left behind; especially when she runs into Dean. Dean and Willow have been best friends for as long as they can remember. They get and understand each other on such a deep level. Their reunion is just what Willow needed; especially when Dean suggests that the two of them go ahead with Willow’s plans for a road trip. Armed with a map and not much else to go on, these two are about to embark on a trip of a lifetime. What the two of them didn’t know, was that this road trip would change their lives in more ways than one…..
The Road That Leads To Us was such a fun read. I found myself laughing out loud so many times. I LOVED seeing Maddox as a father. He was so over the top and protective of Willow. I couldn’t get enough of it. He was the perfect dad! And I really loved spending some time with Maddox and Emma again. Their lives certainly have changed, but in a good way!
One of the things that I loved about this book was that it was really light on the drama. It was so refreshing to read a book where there wasn’t a ton of drama, pulling the characters apart. It was just a fun and entertaining road trip between two good friends. It really reminded me of what it was like to be at the age Willow was at. She had her whole future ahead of her; so many endless possibilities
I absolutely loved the connection between Willow and Dean. You could tell right away that the feelings they had for one another were real and genuine. They had excellent chemistry and shared a lot of sweet, romantic moments.
The Road That Leads To Us was a fantastic read, from start to finish. The story-line was entertaining and captivating. I loved that it was told from dual points of view. And let’s face it, I wasn’t really ready to say goodbye to the Willow Creek clan, so I was really happy to spend more time with them. Even though this is a stand-alone, it is a wonderful addition to the Willow Creek series. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the US Series!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
October 29, 2015
This book was different than any of Micalea Smeltzer's other books I have previously read, but it turned out just as amazing! Willow and Dean take you on a long, sweet, romantic journey as they take the road trip that will forever change things between them. I absolutely love Dean and Willow! Their connection to one another is so strong that you just know it will last for a lifetime. This book made me laugh more than anything, but also made me tear up at a few of the more sentimental moments it had along the way.
I think Dean might be my new favorite book boyfriend of the moment. I love his sweet, nerdy, caring personality! He is definitely swoonworthy in my book.
It is highly recommended that you read the Willow Creek and the Trace and Olivia series since characters from those pop up throughout this one. Dean and Willow are the kids from two of the couples in Micalea's other series, and more kids will pop up in other books she is adding to the Us series. I can't wait for the next book in the series which stars Willow's cousin, Liam Wade. After seeing him in this book, I am definitely intrigued to know more.
If you are looking for a sweet, gentle romantic ride of a book then this is the perfect book for you!
I think Dean might be my new favorite book boyfriend of the moment. I love his sweet, nerdy, caring personality! He is definitely swoonworthy in my book.
It is highly recommended that you read the Willow Creek and the Trace and Olivia series since characters from those pop up throughout this one. Dean and Willow are the kids from two of the couples in Micalea's other series, and more kids will pop up in other books she is adding to the Us series. I can't wait for the next book in the series which stars Willow's cousin, Liam Wade. After seeing him in this book, I am definitely intrigued to know more.
If you are looking for a sweet, gentle romantic ride of a book then this is the perfect book for you!
November 29, 2015
I thought this book would be right up my alley, but upon reading the first pages, I knew that there was something off about it, something that didn't make me want to continue. I let it rest and decided that maybe I wasn't in the right mind frame for it. I picked it up again while we were stuck in traffic, and the fact that watching cars move at snail pace was more entertaining than this book said a lot.
I didn't care for the MC's personality and that's usually a big turn off for me. The story is told from dual POVs, but you I couldn't tell their voices apart. Sadly, it goes to the DNF pile.
This book didn't appeal to my personal taste, but it doesn't mean it's a bad book.
I didn't care for the MC's personality and that's usually a big turn off for me. The story is told from dual POVs, but you I couldn't tell their voices apart. Sadly, it goes to the DNF pile.
This book didn't appeal to my personal taste, but it doesn't mean it's a bad book.
October 22, 2015
I'm so hooked on this author - and this book following dean and willows story was a great lead on can't wait for the next one
June 13, 2017
Sickeningly sweet. Uneventful and by no means perfect but adorable nonetheless
November 6, 2015
Reviewed @ Confessions From Romaholics
Review copy kindly provided by author in exchange for a honest review
I do like the idea of a road trip new adult romance, I have read some amazing ones that I have adored to pieces so I was definitely curious about this one after discovering the book by chance because of that cover. It is so clean and edge and draws you in and I took a chance with
The Road That Leads to Us is my first book of this author and had no clue this book as tied to previous two different series of this author. Whilst I didn’t feel anything amiss by only discovering these characters now, I do want to know more about these characters family .
Willow Wade just wants to forget her first year of college and take a summer road trip with her friend s to sort out her thoughts and plan for her future. However they have other ideas for the summer and bail on her and she returns home to with a crazy idea to still do the trip but with someone she trusts.
Dean her childhood friend and close family friend has always been her confident and she turns to him with hopes of offering a solution to her summer and plans. Instead he offers the road trips she wants , knowing that something is on her mind and that she needs it , not expecting what happens when they set off on Willow’s Epic Road Trip.
A road trip that truly represents what I love about road trips. Whimsically, no plans and random, well they had one destination. Malibu to visit Liam, her cousin, ( I do hope this broody surfer gets a story at some point) added an interesting secondary story. However this story is their’s and you have to wonder why now ?
The Road That leads To Us, isn’t a fast moving romance. It slow and gradual as we get first insight to them into their friendship and how eventually they were might for each other. Whilst they might be exploring their romance for most of the book, the relationship seems to me at time, best friend level. Though there is undoubtable fact that Dean always been there for Willow and let face it , a guy who wants to help out a girl and go on a road trip. There must be feelings as Willow’s Dad could see it
Now I had no indication that was the first in a series and whilst I feel there was slight problems with the book , I hold hope that further book in the series will solve them and offer as solutions. As this is only the beginning of their story. I liked that the author actually is working with her characters, not forcing them to reach the magical HEA in one book. These two are young and have their lives in front of them.
4.5 couples
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
Review copy kindly provided by author in exchange for a honest review
I do like the idea of a road trip new adult romance, I have read some amazing ones that I have adored to pieces so I was definitely curious about this one after discovering the book by chance because of that cover. It is so clean and edge and draws you in and I took a chance with
The Road That Leads to Us is my first book of this author and had no clue this book as tied to previous two different series of this author. Whilst I didn’t feel anything amiss by only discovering these characters now, I do want to know more about these characters family .
Willow Wade just wants to forget her first year of college and take a summer road trip with her friend s to sort out her thoughts and plan for her future. However they have other ideas for the summer and bail on her and she returns home to with a crazy idea to still do the trip but with someone she trusts.
Dean her childhood friend and close family friend has always been her confident and she turns to him with hopes of offering a solution to her summer and plans. Instead he offers the road trips she wants , knowing that something is on her mind and that she needs it , not expecting what happens when they set off on Willow’s Epic Road Trip.
A road trip that truly represents what I love about road trips. Whimsically, no plans and random, well they had one destination. Malibu to visit Liam, her cousin, ( I do hope this broody surfer gets a story at some point) added an interesting secondary story. However this story is their’s and you have to wonder why now ?
The Road That leads To Us, isn’t a fast moving romance. It slow and gradual as we get first insight to them into their friendship and how eventually they were might for each other. Whilst they might be exploring their romance for most of the book, the relationship seems to me at time, best friend level. Though there is undoubtable fact that Dean always been there for Willow and let face it , a guy who wants to help out a girl and go on a road trip. There must be feelings as Willow’s Dad could see it
Now I had no indication that was the first in a series and whilst I feel there was slight problems with the book , I hold hope that further book in the series will solve them and offer as solutions. As this is only the beginning of their story. I liked that the author actually is working with her characters, not forcing them to reach the magical HEA in one book. These two are young and have their lives in front of them.
4.5 couples
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
October 25, 2015
When I saw who this book was about, I was really excited to read it. Seeing these kids grown up was so great to read. Micalea always hooks me into her stories and TRTLTU was no different.
When Willow’s friends bail on their plans to go on a road trip, she goes home to swallow her sorrows. While there, she goes to visit her best friend Dean. When Dean suggests that they embark on this road trip themselves, Willow jumps at the opportunity. However, neither of them knows what this trip will really mean to them. This book was their journey to discovery. Dean and Willow were always the best of friends. They were just comfortable around each other. I enjoyed seeing their relationship and how easy-going and fun it was. While Willow was the adventure-seeking spunky girl, Dean was the laid-back cool guy. I could see each of their parents in them. They really balanced each other out and were so perfect together. I also loved seeing the progression of their relationship from friendship to something more. It didn’t feel rushed because of what they have always meant to each other. It just made sense. Overall, this is a book about two friends embarking a journey of adventure that will define their lives.
I always feel happy when I finish reading one of Micalea’s books. Her characters are fantastic and her story lines are great. This book was awesome! It was a book about self-discovery and love. It was funny, meaningful, and sweet. A definite enjoyable read.
When Willow’s friends bail on their plans to go on a road trip, she goes home to swallow her sorrows. While there, she goes to visit her best friend Dean. When Dean suggests that they embark on this road trip themselves, Willow jumps at the opportunity. However, neither of them knows what this trip will really mean to them. This book was their journey to discovery. Dean and Willow were always the best of friends. They were just comfortable around each other. I enjoyed seeing their relationship and how easy-going and fun it was. While Willow was the adventure-seeking spunky girl, Dean was the laid-back cool guy. I could see each of their parents in them. They really balanced each other out and were so perfect together. I also loved seeing the progression of their relationship from friendship to something more. It didn’t feel rushed because of what they have always meant to each other. It just made sense. Overall, this is a book about two friends embarking a journey of adventure that will define their lives.
I always feel happy when I finish reading one of Micalea’s books. Her characters are fantastic and her story lines are great. This book was awesome! It was a book about self-discovery and love. It was funny, meaningful, and sweet. A definite enjoyable read.
December 16, 2015
I really enjoyed reading Dean and Willow's story in "The Road That Leads To Us." Dean and Willow were great main characters, and I liked their personalities and chemistry together. Dean was easy going and laid back, while Willow was more adventurous and energetic. I liked that they balanced each other out well, and how they had a strong and close friendship that developed into so much more. Their relationship happened a little fast in my opinion, but it was perfect for the characters and I was happy for them. The story - though interesting - was slightly boring in some parts, but better in others. I laughed on more than one occasion, so that made up for the lulls. Dean and Willow were very entertaining and I loved their banter with each other. I loved that the book was told from both Dean and Willow's alternating points of view, and it was truly amazing to see the members of Willow Creek and their wives and kids. I really liked how the book ended, even though their story wasn't quite finished yet. I'll be excited to see what happens with them next. I really enjoyed going on this journey with Dean and Willow, and I'm looking forward to reading Liam Wade's story in "The Lies That Define Us" and finding out more about everyone else!
Check out more of my reviews on my blog: https://perksofbeingabibliophile.word...
Check out more of my reviews on my blog: https://perksofbeingabibliophile.word...
October 27, 2015
there are not enough words in the dictionary to convey my love for this book!
the Trace + Olivia Series was my very first by Micalea & I loved them and The Willow Creek Series is my newest loves by her! so imagine my insane excitement when I found out that the kids from these two awesome series were getting their own book.
Dean & Willow are the perfect combination of their parents & pretty much the cutest thing since hedgehogs.
i cannot wait for more of those series!!!!
the Trace + Olivia Series was my very first by Micalea & I loved them and The Willow Creek Series is my newest loves by her! so imagine my insane excitement when I found out that the kids from these two awesome series were getting their own book.
Dean & Willow are the perfect combination of their parents & pretty much the cutest thing since hedgehogs.
i cannot wait for more of those series!!!!
October 29, 2015
I absolutely loved this book. It was funny, sweet, loving an just all in all a great read. I fell in love with Dean and Willow. They complimented each other perfectly, her easy go lucky attitude to his protective and loving spirit. I also loved the value of family this book has in it. I am so excited to read Liam's story and get a glimpse of what Dean and Willow have going on in their lives.
January 24, 2016
I liked it. It was cute and fluffy read. I liked Willow and Dean was cute! But sometimes when Dean thought same thing too many times annoyed me a little. But they are cute together! I liked it.
The book is standalone but their story is far from over, I'd like to know more about them but am excited to read Liam's story!
Got the book in exchange of an honest review.
The book is standalone but their story is far from over, I'd like to know more about them but am excited to read Liam's story!
Got the book in exchange of an honest review.
February 27, 2019
WHAT A RIDE? I loved this book! Dean & Willow made me laugh, cry, but overall fall in love. They made me want to go on a road trip. I thought Maddox stole my heart but Dean won me over. Its a definite must read. I promise you will love it. Overall I can't wait for more.
October 20, 2015
Review to come!
Want to read
September 12, 2016This sounds really good :)
December 23, 2015
My first Micalea Smeltzer and it certainly won't be my last. Really looking forward to the next book in this series especially.
October 23, 2015
I wasn't in the right mood for this
Read
November 12, 20154Stars
I adored Dean and Willow's story. I especially loved seeing Maddox and the gang all grown up. Looking forward to learning more about Liam.
I adored Dean and Willow's story. I especially loved seeing Maddox and the gang all grown up. Looking forward to learning more about Liam.
September 28, 2016
Gosh I really want to do a road trip with my friends. Uffff.
June 14, 2020
deanwillow supremacy
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews