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Come Home to Me
Healing the wounds of the past doesn’t come easy in this novel of friendship and forgiveness from award-winning author Liz Talley.
Summer Valentine has returned to Moonlight, South Carolina, a very different woman from the naive wallflower who left years before. These days she’s straightforward and savvy, determined to do right by her son, David—even if that means cashing in her struggling music career in Nashville and returning to the town that drove her away. Sure, she took a fall. But at least she now knows where she stands…
Despite her anger over the past, Summer believes David deserves a relationship with his father, Hunter “Hunt” McCroy. Though Hunt’s illustrious career has faded, privilege still protects him from his worst mistakes.
Someone else is back in Moonlight too: Rhett Bryan, the golden boy of Hollywood, who’s taking stock of his own life after a tragic accident. As his rekindled friendship with Summer quickly deepens, she must reconcile the painful history that ties her to both men—one she’s finally forgiven, one she’s afraid to love—to claim healing and happiness.
Summer Valentine has returned to Moonlight, South Carolina, a very different woman from the naive wallflower who left years before. These days she’s straightforward and savvy, determined to do right by her son, David—even if that means cashing in her struggling music career in Nashville and returning to the town that drove her away. Sure, she took a fall. But at least she now knows where she stands…
Despite her anger over the past, Summer believes David deserves a relationship with his father, Hunter “Hunt” McCroy. Though Hunt’s illustrious career has faded, privilege still protects him from his worst mistakes.
Someone else is back in Moonlight too: Rhett Bryan, the golden boy of Hollywood, who’s taking stock of his own life after a tragic accident. As his rekindled friendship with Summer quickly deepens, she must reconcile the painful history that ties her to both men—one she’s finally forgiven, one she’s afraid to love—to claim healing and happiness.
332 pages, Paperback
Published April 17, 2018
2104 people are currently reading
2196 people want to read
About the author
Liz Talley
69 books931 followersI unashamedly read, write and love romance books. I adore the weight of a book in hand and the anticipation of a happy ending. I love the journey, the word play and the magic of story. Nothing's better than reading a good book...except writing one. You can learn more about me and my award-winning romances at http://www.liztalleybooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
April 22, 2018
OUT NOW! Review available at Under the Pages.
June 18, 2019
Summer Valentine has come back to her home town of Moonlight ,South Carolina after a failed attempt at a music career. Full of conflicting feelings, she nonetheless has brushed off the dust of Nashville and come home to start again. Nothing has been easy for Summer but she is determined to do right by her teenage son and herself.
Enter two men from her past. Hunt McCroy, father to her son and Rhett Bryan, her long held deep crush. Both men have their own stories and baggage. And stuck firmly in the middle of this cookie is Summer.
I was more than ready for a lighter read and this one fit the bill. While it dealt with hard topics, ti overall was a story about friendship, compassion and forgiveness. And how sometimes, you can go home again.
Enter two men from her past. Hunt McCroy, father to her son and Rhett Bryan, her long held deep crush. Both men have their own stories and baggage. And stuck firmly in the middle of this cookie is Summer.
I was more than ready for a lighter read and this one fit the bill. While it dealt with hard topics, ti overall was a story about friendship, compassion and forgiveness. And how sometimes, you can go home again.
April 6, 2018
Ms Talley always astounds me with her story telling. I love her characters because they aren’t perfect, have flaws, make mistakes, and throughout the story learn about themselves and make a change. I think she sucks you in so well because her characters are real and what happens to them or happened to them in the past could have happened to you.
Now some people will read this book and think that Summer is a coward and a doormat, due to her choices about what happened to her. This story touches on a very touchy topic in today’s world and every incident isn’t black and white. I don’t feel Summer was a coward, I feel that she is a realist and a survivor. The situation effects more then just the victim long term and Summer had and has the courage to overcome some aspects for the sake of her son.
Hunt is a complicated person and even though he is the villain, he takes a step back and really evaluates his life and is so heartfelt in his path to redemption. You want to hate him, but you just can’t. His character is written so well.
Rhett in a way is more lost then Hunt. He too lost his way and was blind to his faults and path in life. The golden boy who never had to deal with anything bad, disappointing, or felt failure; had to face all of it with one swoop. He was very condescending to Summer at times and very self righteous in some ways. He too tended to turn it around.
A great story of growing up facing reality facing your faults and mistakes and turning your life into something worth living.
Received an advance copy from the publisher through NetGalley. Thank you!
Now some people will read this book and think that Summer is a coward and a doormat, due to her choices about what happened to her. This story touches on a very touchy topic in today’s world and every incident isn’t black and white. I don’t feel Summer was a coward, I feel that she is a realist and a survivor. The situation effects more then just the victim long term and Summer had and has the courage to overcome some aspects for the sake of her son.
Hunt is a complicated person and even though he is the villain, he takes a step back and really evaluates his life and is so heartfelt in his path to redemption. You want to hate him, but you just can’t. His character is written so well.
Rhett in a way is more lost then Hunt. He too lost his way and was blind to his faults and path in life. The golden boy who never had to deal with anything bad, disappointing, or felt failure; had to face all of it with one swoop. He was very condescending to Summer at times and very self righteous in some ways. He too tended to turn it around.
A great story of growing up facing reality facing your faults and mistakes and turning your life into something worth living.
Received an advance copy from the publisher through NetGalley. Thank you!
April 7, 2018
I’m a big fan of 'unrequited love' HEAs, so this story was right up my alley! You can't go wrong with Ms. Talley’s work, and this is another great story, but it’s not a romance that’s all about the tingles. This is a love story about people who need to heal from past mistakes and learn to love and trust again.
And like an August day in the South, where the heat forces you to move slowly enough that you can actually stop and notice the details of your day, this book has that same slow burn (which makes sense, given that it’s set set in the Low Country).
***spoiler alert***
The pace of the story bubbles along in a way that lets you appreciate some of the beautiful, poignant moments and prose in a story that takes on some weighty issues, like date rape and family and forgiveness.
The combination of realistic relationships, sassy repartee among the various cast of characters, and Southern charm lifts up what could have been a heavy, dark story to something that rises on heart and hope. That’s not to say that every reader will agree with each of the choices or beliefs of these characters, but I like when my point of view is challenged, which is something this book will probably do for many readers.
Summer is an interesting heroine. I felt for her and thought her behavior mirrored a likely scenario that many young women might find themselves in. I also totally believed that she would have blamed herself for some of what happened with Hunt, whether or not she should’ve done so. She definitely made some hard choices and sacrifices for her son’s sake, and you can’t help but admire her grit and her ability to put her son first, even in the face of the man who hurt her so badly.
Hunt was hard to deal with. He made a lot of mistakes and it took another near tragedy for him to wise-up. By the end of the book, however, I saw a hint of redemption—an awakening and recognition of his sins, and some sincere remorse. That was good because I almost didn’t want him having an influence on his son if he couldn’t get to that place.
And then we have the hero, Rhett. Charming, handsome, conflicted. Everything in life came easy to this guy until he accidentally kills a kid who runs in front of his car. He handles it all badly and his life takes a hard left, so he goes home to get his head together, and that’s when he reconnects with Summer, an old friend who’d always had a crush on him.
I liked the structure of the book, which alternates every few chapters to flashbacks so the reader can see the three main characters as teens and then as adults. I liked the way the present relationship between Summer and Rhett unfolded slowly and believably, given their very different lives and past falling out. They didn’t change for each other, but because of each other, which is the best kind of evolution.
You may ache a little when reading this, but you'll close the book with a satisfied smile. So pick this up and settle in on a porch swing for a nice, long read. Don’t forget the sweet tea!
And like an August day in the South, where the heat forces you to move slowly enough that you can actually stop and notice the details of your day, this book has that same slow burn (which makes sense, given that it’s set set in the Low Country).
***spoiler alert***
The pace of the story bubbles along in a way that lets you appreciate some of the beautiful, poignant moments and prose in a story that takes on some weighty issues, like date rape and family and forgiveness.
The combination of realistic relationships, sassy repartee among the various cast of characters, and Southern charm lifts up what could have been a heavy, dark story to something that rises on heart and hope. That’s not to say that every reader will agree with each of the choices or beliefs of these characters, but I like when my point of view is challenged, which is something this book will probably do for many readers.
Summer is an interesting heroine. I felt for her and thought her behavior mirrored a likely scenario that many young women might find themselves in. I also totally believed that she would have blamed herself for some of what happened with Hunt, whether or not she should’ve done so. She definitely made some hard choices and sacrifices for her son’s sake, and you can’t help but admire her grit and her ability to put her son first, even in the face of the man who hurt her so badly.
Hunt was hard to deal with. He made a lot of mistakes and it took another near tragedy for him to wise-up. By the end of the book, however, I saw a hint of redemption—an awakening and recognition of his sins, and some sincere remorse. That was good because I almost didn’t want him having an influence on his son if he couldn’t get to that place.
And then we have the hero, Rhett. Charming, handsome, conflicted. Everything in life came easy to this guy until he accidentally kills a kid who runs in front of his car. He handles it all badly and his life takes a hard left, so he goes home to get his head together, and that’s when he reconnects with Summer, an old friend who’d always had a crush on him.
I liked the structure of the book, which alternates every few chapters to flashbacks so the reader can see the three main characters as teens and then as adults. I liked the way the present relationship between Summer and Rhett unfolded slowly and believably, given their very different lives and past falling out. They didn’t change for each other, but because of each other, which is the best kind of evolution.
You may ache a little when reading this, but you'll close the book with a satisfied smile. So pick this up and settle in on a porch swing for a nice, long read. Don’t forget the sweet tea!
April 24, 2018
Review to Follow Soon
March 26, 2018
All opinions stated in this review are my own and are based on an advanced copy that I requested.
This book has both on-screen sex and cursing, including f-bombs. If those things will cause you to leave a bad review, you might want to skip this one. There should be a trigger warning for this book. I understand that the warning would be a major spoiler, but it is important to warn readers with certain sensitivities. ***MAJOR BUT IMPORTANT SPOILERS TO END OF PARAGRAPH*** This book has a scene that graphically describes a date rape which could be highly triggering for some readers. Although I know that this is a spoiler, I was very surprised that this was not warned for in the blurb as it is graphic and detailed and most definitely rape. If you're triggered by described sexual assault, PLEASE be aware of your own self-care when reading this book. I wish that I had been warned that it was graphically described because I would have skipped this book.
Without getting into spoilery specifics, a lot of dramatic/traumatic things happen in this book. Although it isn't a dark, depressing book, this is also not a light-hearted romance novel. If you're looking for light and fluffy romance, this is not that book.
Some of this story is told via flashbacks and alternating time lines. While that can sometimes be really confusing, Ms. Talley does a really great job of labeling every chapter clearly so you know what timeline you're reading. Even if two consecutive chapters were set in the “present day” setting, they are labeled clearly so there is no question about what year you're reading. I don't typically care for books loaded with flashbacks, but that style actually worked really well in this story. To be honest, if the book had been told with all of the “2003” parts first and the “big reveal” had happened earlier in the book, this would have been a DNF for me, but by that time I was so invested in Summer and David that I finished the book despite my annoyance at how that was handled. (trying to be vague to avoid spoilers)
I loved Summer and David and they were the only thing that kept me reading this book. Summer was an amazing character who was strong, solid, and an amazing mother. I had nothing but a truck load of respect for her from the start but especially to the finish. She could so easily have been bitter and full of hate, but she took her pain and made herself so much stronger than any of the bad things that happened to her. Her capacity for love and forgiveness was amazing and something this world needs more of. She didn't blindly forgive and she wasn't naive, she just didn't let hate control her. Rhett I struggled with. (SPOILERS TO END OF PARAGRAPH) I'm still not at all sold on his commitment to Summer despite their alleged happily ever after. I wanted him to chase her, to do something show her that he was sorry and that he not only loved her but was worthy of her love, but instead he insulted her and treated her horribly and then made her chase him. It was really disappointing that once again Summer had to be the one to put herself out there while Rhett got to just be his rich, spoiled, shiny self.
To my shock, Hunt was a really intriguing character and even with all his flaws, I liked him far more than I liked Rhett. I suspected, but wasn't sure of, what his “sins” from the past were, but I was really surprised and impressed by how he eventually dealt with them. I liked the way that he protected David, and that even when he didn't know how to be a father because he'd never learned how to be one, he had tried his best. I also really liked that he learned from David – even if it was something he should have learned about decades before, he still figured it out and tried to make amends for his sin. He was flawed and incredibly imperfect, but by the end of the book he really was more redeemed than I ever dreamed he would be. His redemption was far more believable than Rhett's, to be honest. That says a lot about Ms. Talley's writing because this is one character I didn't expect to be redeemable.
This is a three star read for me because Ms. Talley has tremendous writing skills and I look forward to reading more from her, but this book just wasn't for me.
This book has both on-screen sex and cursing, including f-bombs. If those things will cause you to leave a bad review, you might want to skip this one. There should be a trigger warning for this book. I understand that the warning would be a major spoiler, but it is important to warn readers with certain sensitivities. ***MAJOR BUT IMPORTANT SPOILERS TO END OF PARAGRAPH*** This book has a scene that graphically describes a date rape which could be highly triggering for some readers. Although I know that this is a spoiler, I was very surprised that this was not warned for in the blurb as it is graphic and detailed and most definitely rape. If you're triggered by described sexual assault, PLEASE be aware of your own self-care when reading this book. I wish that I had been warned that it was graphically described because I would have skipped this book.
Without getting into spoilery specifics, a lot of dramatic/traumatic things happen in this book. Although it isn't a dark, depressing book, this is also not a light-hearted romance novel. If you're looking for light and fluffy romance, this is not that book.
Some of this story is told via flashbacks and alternating time lines. While that can sometimes be really confusing, Ms. Talley does a really great job of labeling every chapter clearly so you know what timeline you're reading. Even if two consecutive chapters were set in the “present day” setting, they are labeled clearly so there is no question about what year you're reading. I don't typically care for books loaded with flashbacks, but that style actually worked really well in this story. To be honest, if the book had been told with all of the “2003” parts first and the “big reveal” had happened earlier in the book, this would have been a DNF for me, but by that time I was so invested in Summer and David that I finished the book despite my annoyance at how that was handled. (trying to be vague to avoid spoilers)
I loved Summer and David and they were the only thing that kept me reading this book. Summer was an amazing character who was strong, solid, and an amazing mother. I had nothing but a truck load of respect for her from the start but especially to the finish. She could so easily have been bitter and full of hate, but she took her pain and made herself so much stronger than any of the bad things that happened to her. Her capacity for love and forgiveness was amazing and something this world needs more of. She didn't blindly forgive and she wasn't naive, she just didn't let hate control her. Rhett I struggled with. (SPOILERS TO END OF PARAGRAPH) I'm still not at all sold on his commitment to Summer despite their alleged happily ever after. I wanted him to chase her, to do something show her that he was sorry and that he not only loved her but was worthy of her love, but instead he insulted her and treated her horribly and then made her chase him. It was really disappointing that once again Summer had to be the one to put herself out there while Rhett got to just be his rich, spoiled, shiny self.
To my shock, Hunt was a really intriguing character and even with all his flaws, I liked him far more than I liked Rhett. I suspected, but wasn't sure of, what his “sins” from the past were, but I was really surprised and impressed by how he eventually dealt with them. I liked the way that he protected David, and that even when he didn't know how to be a father because he'd never learned how to be one, he had tried his best. I also really liked that he learned from David – even if it was something he should have learned about decades before, he still figured it out and tried to make amends for his sin. He was flawed and incredibly imperfect, but by the end of the book he really was more redeemed than I ever dreamed he would be. His redemption was far more believable than Rhett's, to be honest. That says a lot about Ms. Talley's writing because this is one character I didn't expect to be redeemable.
This is a three star read for me because Ms. Talley has tremendous writing skills and I look forward to reading more from her, but this book just wasn't for me.
April 21, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
4.5*s rounded up, because it really is a very good read.
I have not had the pleasure of reading a Ms Talley book before- but will definitely be remedying that soon. The writing style is smooth and gives the story the very best chance to shine.
This is a story which deals with some very difficult issues - it does not pull its punches. I think that all the conversations and the time shifting to ensure that the truth is revealed slowly and carefully work brilliantly. Summer display a wonderful level of common sense and pragmatism which serves her and her son well. She is a stable centre around which both Rhett and Hunt have to face their pasts and consider their futures. In some ways they know what must happen, such as Hunt protecting David from his own father's expectations. Rhett comes home to Carolina, and doesn't even recognise the grown up version of Summer who is living near his grandfather. The attraction between them is strong, but he has no intention of hanging around, so is resistant to his desires ... you will soon find out how effective that plan is!!
There are plenty of light-hearted moments, but do expect to need a tissue on occasion. We don't get to see all that much of Summer's family, yet they make up some very poignant scenes. It is definitely a book which does not shy away from discussing consent - brilliantly done Ms Talley, thank you.
4.5*s rounded up, because it really is a very good read.
I have not had the pleasure of reading a Ms Talley book before- but will definitely be remedying that soon. The writing style is smooth and gives the story the very best chance to shine.
This is a story which deals with some very difficult issues - it does not pull its punches. I think that all the conversations and the time shifting to ensure that the truth is revealed slowly and carefully work brilliantly. Summer display a wonderful level of common sense and pragmatism which serves her and her son well. She is a stable centre around which both Rhett and Hunt have to face their pasts and consider their futures. In some ways they know what must happen, such as Hunt protecting David from his own father's expectations. Rhett comes home to Carolina, and doesn't even recognise the grown up version of Summer who is living near his grandfather. The attraction between them is strong, but he has no intention of hanging around, so is resistant to his desires ... you will soon find out how effective that plan is!!
There are plenty of light-hearted moments, but do expect to need a tissue on occasion. We don't get to see all that much of Summer's family, yet they make up some very poignant scenes. It is definitely a book which does not shy away from discussing consent - brilliantly done Ms Talley, thank you.
March 3, 2020
Well written Women's Fiction book with a bit of romance thrown in tackling tough issues.
January 31, 2018
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
Well written, enjoyable story about a Carolina boy who accomplished the American Dream of success, fame and wealth, and lost his way when confronted with tragedy. Some serious issues are interwoven in the plot.
Rhett, Summer and Hunt are complex characters. I liked both males, more in the beginning of the story than by the end, I even found Hunt a fascinating character and appreciated Rhett’s broken persona. But both of them turned out to be selfish and self-centered, each one in his own way: workaholic Rhett so focused on his career that he forgets the basic rules of kindness and honor, and Hunt… you’ll have to read the book.
Summer is a bit too good to be true, but I enjoyed watching her get her HEA.
I found that perhaps because of these serious themes and other things happening, as well as the shifts to the past plot line, the romance in the present day was a bit underdeveloped.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Montlake Romance, and NetGalley, for providing a free copy
Well written, enjoyable story about a Carolina boy who accomplished the American Dream of success, fame and wealth, and lost his way when confronted with tragedy. Some serious issues are interwoven in the plot.
Rhett, Summer and Hunt are complex characters. I liked both males, more in the beginning of the story than by the end, I even found Hunt a fascinating character and appreciated Rhett’s broken persona. But both of them turned out to be selfish and self-centered, each one in his own way: workaholic Rhett so focused on his career that he forgets the basic rules of kindness and honor, and Hunt… you’ll have to read the book.
Summer is a bit too good to be true, but I enjoyed watching her get her HEA.
I found that perhaps because of these serious themes and other things happening, as well as the shifts to the past plot line, the romance in the present day was a bit underdeveloped.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Montlake Romance, and NetGalley, for providing a free copy
April 23, 2018
An awesome emotional read that I had hard time putting down. Told in dual time story line, so it's like getting two stories in one. A very hard topic of date rape and how it effects all involved, was well delivered. This story focuses on three main characters, Summer, Hunter and Rhett. The night of their senior prom will change the rest of their lives.
Summer has returned home with her son David,, to be close to David's dad, Hunt. Rhett has also returned home for short vacation after a tragic incident. They all need to overcome the past and to trust again to move forward.
This story will stay with me for along time. Excellent story telling of believable characters that I was hurting with them.
Summer has returned home with her son David,, to be close to David's dad, Hunt. Rhett has also returned home for short vacation after a tragic incident. They all need to overcome the past and to trust again to move forward.
This story will stay with me for along time. Excellent story telling of believable characters that I was hurting with them.
February 28, 2020
loved the story,the way the characters was written out
the love,the harships,trials and tribulations for the MCs to be together
how true love always come together in the end
Rhett goes home after an accident leaves him shaken and no longer confident.Summer goes back for her son to be fair to him.when they meet the sparks fly,and their romance blossoms.but what happens when they choose different paths in life?will they fight for their love?or will they walk away for the sake of their dreams?is ther anyway compromise is even possible when both want something different?
the love,the harships,trials and tribulations for the MCs to be together
how true love always come together in the end
Rhett goes home after an accident leaves him shaken and no longer confident.Summer goes back for her son to be fair to him.when they meet the sparks fly,and their romance blossoms.but what happens when they choose different paths in life?will they fight for their love?or will they walk away for the sake of their dreams?is ther anyway compromise is even possible when both want something different?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2018
Sometimes a quick stroll through the “New Books” shelves at the library nets some good finds! And Come Home to Me was a good find.
Reading the synopsis, you might think you’re getting a story about a small-town, single mother falling in love with a Hollywood celebrity. But this book is SO much more, and I really enjoyed how...normal this story is. How realistic these people and their lives were...
Summer Valentine was the quiet, nerdy girl in high school harboring a crush on the friendly, popular classmate. When his girlfriend pulls her into their friend group for prom, Summer knows it's probably too good to be true, but the chance to hang out with Rhett is irresistable. Amongst the drinking and partying atmosphere after prom, Summer gets in over her head, with tragic consequences. But she’s made the best of the change to her life plan, and doesn’t have any regrets.
Rhett Bryan took off after high school graduation, and hasn’t done much looking back. Fifteen years later he’s sneaking back into his hometown, looking to get away from a tragic situation and get some perspective on his life.
When living in close proximity enables Summer and Rhett to become reacquainted, neither is looking for more than a friend, and both are hesitant to admit their growing feelings could lead to more. After all, Rhett’s life is in California and he’s dealing with the fallout from the tragic event, and Summer’s life is complicated by the relationship she is forced to have with her son’s father.
At its core, this story is about moving past horrible experiences, and asking for - and giving - forgiveness. Summer’s story is deeply moving, and it isn’t often you read such a compelling story about a strong woman who selflessly makes truly difficult decisions. Several times I asked myself if I would be able to extend the forgiveness necessary to have a relationship with someone who treated me so horrifically. And while Rhett experienced a situation that was horrific in its own right, he had his own demons to exorcise, in his own way, in his own time.
I loved the themes of apology and forgiveness that were woven throughout (even the antagonist in the story - the father of Summer’s son - had his own epiphany). I also appreciated the lessons about active consent and date rape that were a prevalent part of the story - and managed to be there without it seeming like the author was trying to preach to the reader (as is frequently the case when the plot contains the latest “hot button” topic).
This was frequently a difficult story to read, but I’m so glad I did. I love a book that challenges me to think about my own life, and gives a reader lessons about real life. Sometimes I think all this reading I do is a colossal waste of time, yet a book that entertains, but also helps me grow, is surely time well spent.
Reading the synopsis, you might think you’re getting a story about a small-town, single mother falling in love with a Hollywood celebrity. But this book is SO much more, and I really enjoyed how...normal this story is. How realistic these people and their lives were...
Summer Valentine was the quiet, nerdy girl in high school harboring a crush on the friendly, popular classmate. When his girlfriend pulls her into their friend group for prom, Summer knows it's probably too good to be true, but the chance to hang out with Rhett is irresistable. Amongst the drinking and partying atmosphere after prom, Summer gets in over her head, with tragic consequences. But she’s made the best of the change to her life plan, and doesn’t have any regrets.
Rhett Bryan took off after high school graduation, and hasn’t done much looking back. Fifteen years later he’s sneaking back into his hometown, looking to get away from a tragic situation and get some perspective on his life.
When living in close proximity enables Summer and Rhett to become reacquainted, neither is looking for more than a friend, and both are hesitant to admit their growing feelings could lead to more. After all, Rhett’s life is in California and he’s dealing with the fallout from the tragic event, and Summer’s life is complicated by the relationship she is forced to have with her son’s father.
At its core, this story is about moving past horrible experiences, and asking for - and giving - forgiveness. Summer’s story is deeply moving, and it isn’t often you read such a compelling story about a strong woman who selflessly makes truly difficult decisions. Several times I asked myself if I would be able to extend the forgiveness necessary to have a relationship with someone who treated me so horrifically. And while Rhett experienced a situation that was horrific in its own right, he had his own demons to exorcise, in his own way, in his own time.
I loved the themes of apology and forgiveness that were woven throughout (even the antagonist in the story - the father of Summer’s son - had his own epiphany). I also appreciated the lessons about active consent and date rape that were a prevalent part of the story - and managed to be there without it seeming like the author was trying to preach to the reader (as is frequently the case when the plot contains the latest “hot button” topic).
This was frequently a difficult story to read, but I’m so glad I did. I love a book that challenges me to think about my own life, and gives a reader lessons about real life. Sometimes I think all this reading I do is a colossal waste of time, yet a book that entertains, but also helps me grow, is surely time well spent.
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May 23, 2018Come Home to Me is a novel by Liz Talley. The book is really good and easy to read. It deals with childhood crushes and date rape. How the victim deals with her resultant pregnancy is quite interesting.
Rhett Bryan has it made as the star of Late Night in LA with Rhett Bryan. He has two Emmys to prove he has it made. Now is time to get into production. As he is driving into town for a meeting, the road is closed to a trickle for construction so he takes a shortcut. His day turns to a nightmare when a little girl darts out in front of him and he hits her. Her unfortunate death hits him hard and has a hard hit on his career. He heads back to South Carolina and Middleton to recover his equilibrium. However, he isn’t prepared to meet his past.
Summer Valentine was a nerd in high school. She just didn’t fit in. She is just working her hardest to make valedictorian instead of Molly Dorset who is dating the Mustangs’ start pitcher Hunt McCroy. When she is asked to tutor Rhett Bryan in Calculus so he can pass, she agrees. She has had a crush on him for forever What she doesn’t plan on is his girlfriend Graysen taking her on as a project to makeover for the prom. She even gets her a date- Hunt McCroy who has broken up with Molly. Not having a chance against Graysen’s persistence, Summer agrees.
After the prom, Summer heads off to college only to discover she is pregnant. To everyone’s surprise, she decides to keep the baby. However, Hunt and his family refuse to accept his responsibility for the baby. Her family has no chance against the rich McCroy’s and Summer does not file a police report of rape. Even later, she doesn’t accuse Hunt of rape in order to protect her son, David. It is for his sake that she returns to Middleton to give David a chance to get to know Hunt when Hunt agrees to this. Hunt is determined to be a better father than his father was for him.
When the three former classmates get together again, sparks fly and anger arises. Can Summer head off having the past affect David? What about her heart? Will Hunt rise to the occasion of being a good parent for David? Will Rhett find an answer to his personal dilemma?
Rhett Bryan has it made as the star of Late Night in LA with Rhett Bryan. He has two Emmys to prove he has it made. Now is time to get into production. As he is driving into town for a meeting, the road is closed to a trickle for construction so he takes a shortcut. His day turns to a nightmare when a little girl darts out in front of him and he hits her. Her unfortunate death hits him hard and has a hard hit on his career. He heads back to South Carolina and Middleton to recover his equilibrium. However, he isn’t prepared to meet his past.
Summer Valentine was a nerd in high school. She just didn’t fit in. She is just working her hardest to make valedictorian instead of Molly Dorset who is dating the Mustangs’ start pitcher Hunt McCroy. When she is asked to tutor Rhett Bryan in Calculus so he can pass, she agrees. She has had a crush on him for forever What she doesn’t plan on is his girlfriend Graysen taking her on as a project to makeover for the prom. She even gets her a date- Hunt McCroy who has broken up with Molly. Not having a chance against Graysen’s persistence, Summer agrees.
After the prom, Summer heads off to college only to discover she is pregnant. To everyone’s surprise, she decides to keep the baby. However, Hunt and his family refuse to accept his responsibility for the baby. Her family has no chance against the rich McCroy’s and Summer does not file a police report of rape. Even later, she doesn’t accuse Hunt of rape in order to protect her son, David. It is for his sake that she returns to Middleton to give David a chance to get to know Hunt when Hunt agrees to this. Hunt is determined to be a better father than his father was for him.
When the three former classmates get together again, sparks fly and anger arises. Can Summer head off having the past affect David? What about her heart? Will Hunt rise to the occasion of being a good parent for David? Will Rhett find an answer to his personal dilemma?
April 16, 2018
Come Home to Me by Liz Talley
4 stars
M/F Romance
MAJOR Triggers: Accidental MVA with death and Date rape
This book was given to me for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Summer and her son have been living a great life. Summer is an amazing singer and songwriter and despite her love of music, she knows that she can make some sacrifices so that her young, teenage son can have a relationship with his father. Summer and Hunter's relationship being very strained, she knows that if she pushes too hard, her son will be lost to her.
Hunter has lived a very privileged life. Despite having a father who was always pushing him and not really understanding that his baseball career was his alone, not his father's, Hunter has decided that he does want to have a relationship with his son. Old feelings of anger come back to haunt him when Summer points out things from his past that he doesn't want to face, but ultimately, you get to see Hunter grow in this book. The fact that it takes his son's wisdom to help Hunter grow is just the icing on the cake.
Then you have Rhett. He is also fairly spoiled in that he got to live out his dream. When tragedy strikes his life, he returns home to find Summer and her son living in his childhood home. Rhett makes some pretty big leaps and assumptions throughout this story and I had a hard time rectifying his attitude...but, in the end, he learns a lot from Summer and her son, as well as looks back on his past to see where his future will bring him.
Overall, this is an emotional read about a family that isn't quite typical. Boys who learn lessons that make them in to men and a young boy just trying to find his way. I really enjoyed this story and despite some of the heavier topics, felt that Talley did a great job of writing these relationships.
4 stars
M/F Romance
MAJOR Triggers: Accidental MVA with death and Date rape
This book was given to me for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Summer and her son have been living a great life. Summer is an amazing singer and songwriter and despite her love of music, she knows that she can make some sacrifices so that her young, teenage son can have a relationship with his father. Summer and Hunter's relationship being very strained, she knows that if she pushes too hard, her son will be lost to her.
Hunter has lived a very privileged life. Despite having a father who was always pushing him and not really understanding that his baseball career was his alone, not his father's, Hunter has decided that he does want to have a relationship with his son. Old feelings of anger come back to haunt him when Summer points out things from his past that he doesn't want to face, but ultimately, you get to see Hunter grow in this book. The fact that it takes his son's wisdom to help Hunter grow is just the icing on the cake.
Then you have Rhett. He is also fairly spoiled in that he got to live out his dream. When tragedy strikes his life, he returns home to find Summer and her son living in his childhood home. Rhett makes some pretty big leaps and assumptions throughout this story and I had a hard time rectifying his attitude...but, in the end, he learns a lot from Summer and her son, as well as looks back on his past to see where his future will bring him.
Overall, this is an emotional read about a family that isn't quite typical. Boys who learn lessons that make them in to men and a young boy just trying to find his way. I really enjoyed this story and despite some of the heavier topics, felt that Talley did a great job of writing these relationships.
July 27, 2018
Once I started this book I could not put it down. It is an amazing story with an emotional back story. The characters are real and so believable. Its a story that gives you a reunion of three people and how one night long ago changed the lives of many forever. It has heartbreaking moments and will also make you smile at the same time.
Summer Valentine comes home with her son to the place she was raised and lived until she was eighteen, and in coming back home to face some demons, she is not aware that the boy who she has loved since she was young, who is now a big time TV host, has come back too. He also has demons to fight. Summer also has to deal with her feeling that surround her son's father. He is that catalyst that change her forever. Privilege and his family have surround him so he never owned up to the mistakes he made.
Liz Talley has done just an awesome telling the story of a very heart wrenching subject. And that she could put humour and make even the anti-hero into some one you don't necessarily dislike. This was my first novel by Liz Talley and it certainly will not be my last.
I give this book 5++++ Stars.. Well done Liz Talley, Well Done.
Summer Valentine comes home with her son to the place she was raised and lived until she was eighteen, and in coming back home to face some demons, she is not aware that the boy who she has loved since she was young, who is now a big time TV host, has come back too. He also has demons to fight. Summer also has to deal with her feeling that surround her son's father. He is that catalyst that change her forever. Privilege and his family have surround him so he never owned up to the mistakes he made.
Liz Talley has done just an awesome telling the story of a very heart wrenching subject. And that she could put humour and make even the anti-hero into some one you don't necessarily dislike. This was my first novel by Liz Talley and it certainly will not be my last.
I give this book 5++++ Stars.. Well done Liz Talley, Well Done.
April 15, 2018
Wow! This book had my emotions all over the place! These characters are so memorable I was still thinking about them days after finishing the book. They are flawed, resilient, and real. Their story shows how someone can change for the better. This story tackles some serious issues and the author did an excellent job of presenting them and dealing with them. Still with what could have been a very heavy story I walked away from it with a smile. Put this one on the must read list. I highly recommend it.
May 5, 2018
Remember your high-school crush, those dorky dances and proms that had the potential to be your best and your worst nights? Come Home To Me is about all those moments and their consequences.
I loved the rhythm of this story, its heart and its characters. It is sweet and sassy and will stay in your mind even after you finish.
I loved the rhythm of this story, its heart and its characters. It is sweet and sassy and will stay in your mind even after you finish.
October 16, 2018
This was an intense book. The characters were so complicated and wonderfully flawed. You will find yourself at times saying “What?” out loud or at least I did. 😉 Then, cheering or laughing and tearing up all of a sudden. So, all I can say is buckle up. You need to be aware that a sexual assault will occur during a date. This author handles it with just enough info to make the point and make you the reader uncomfortable enough to know how real this has become.
What I love most is how the author chooses to take the assaulted character through as a fighter, not as a victim. Has her go through the explaining to her old friend the growth cycle she has had to go through for herself and for her son. She shows the sad truth of how the assault could often times if reported, make the victim be made into the target again.
Yet, Summer upon choosing to keep the child and raise it was still shunned, called names, and other things. As well as her family due to the actions of the boy who wouldn’t take responsibility, so his parents having money and power slowly made it hard for her and her family.
Hunter is the star pitcher and a son of privilege and wealth. But he just got dumped by his longtime girlfriend right before senior prom. Not happy and not planning on going to the prom, Rhett, a boy Summer has been tutoring tells his girlfriend. Who comes up with the idea to do a makeover on Summer the geeky overweight girl and make her into a swan for the prom so Hunter to star pitcher can take her.
Didn’t go so well. Throughout I wanted to like Hunt I did. But he kept surprising me. Even makes me tear up. He sees himself in a different light. Amazing transformation with him compared to the high school version. Well, played out on the author’s part of how to present this character in a new light.
On the other hand, Rhett goes from being a cool guy to a guy who used Summer in a different way. One so his girlfriend could say, “Look how I turned a sow into a swan,” and Two, so his boy Hunt could have a date to the prom guaranteeing a party at Hunt's house after the prom.
The heart-wrenching event that drives him home will gut you. Yet, again he uses Summer and runs off to LA. Where he leaves a note to explain. I found myself disliking him almost as much as Hunt although his finish was sweet.
Grampy is a hoot and David is a handful who needed a wake-up call because he was becoming very cocky and disrespectful to Summer. What happened was a ‘Come to Jesus moment’ for sure. No person should have to go through but if it works all the better.
You will go through a lot of different emotions as you read this book. But I will tell you what. You will not want to stop turning those pages once you start. You will get an HEA, but know that in order to get it pain, heartache, and tears come first. I give this: 5++++ stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
What I love most is how the author chooses to take the assaulted character through as a fighter, not as a victim. Has her go through the explaining to her old friend the growth cycle she has had to go through for herself and for her son. She shows the sad truth of how the assault could often times if reported, make the victim be made into the target again.
Yet, Summer upon choosing to keep the child and raise it was still shunned, called names, and other things. As well as her family due to the actions of the boy who wouldn’t take responsibility, so his parents having money and power slowly made it hard for her and her family.
Hunter is the star pitcher and a son of privilege and wealth. But he just got dumped by his longtime girlfriend right before senior prom. Not happy and not planning on going to the prom, Rhett, a boy Summer has been tutoring tells his girlfriend. Who comes up with the idea to do a makeover on Summer the geeky overweight girl and make her into a swan for the prom so Hunter to star pitcher can take her.
Didn’t go so well. Throughout I wanted to like Hunt I did. But he kept surprising me. Even makes me tear up. He sees himself in a different light. Amazing transformation with him compared to the high school version. Well, played out on the author’s part of how to present this character in a new light.
On the other hand, Rhett goes from being a cool guy to a guy who used Summer in a different way. One so his girlfriend could say, “Look how I turned a sow into a swan,” and Two, so his boy Hunt could have a date to the prom guaranteeing a party at Hunt's house after the prom.
The heart-wrenching event that drives him home will gut you. Yet, again he uses Summer and runs off to LA. Where he leaves a note to explain. I found myself disliking him almost as much as Hunt although his finish was sweet.
Grampy is a hoot and David is a handful who needed a wake-up call because he was becoming very cocky and disrespectful to Summer. What happened was a ‘Come to Jesus moment’ for sure. No person should have to go through but if it works all the better.
You will go through a lot of different emotions as you read this book. But I will tell you what. You will not want to stop turning those pages once you start. You will get an HEA, but know that in order to get it pain, heartache, and tears come first. I give this: 5++++ stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2020
Lovely, sassy, full of attitude!
Started off with a surprising bang and flashbacks of high school thrown in. A LOT of foreshadowing and some flippant negative phrases that could have been left out, but overall it was great and many items were addressed and clarified to a more-or-less moral standard. I will likely read more by the author!
Started off with a surprising bang and flashbacks of high school thrown in. A LOT of foreshadowing and some flippant negative phrases that could have been left out, but overall it was great and many items were addressed and clarified to a more-or-less moral standard. I will likely read more by the author!
December 12, 2025
4.5 stars
This story is an amazing resemblance of resilience, forgiveness, love, and perseverance. Summer is a character that many can relate to but may not understand ... yet she may make you question why not
This story is an amazing resemblance of resilience, forgiveness, love, and perseverance. Summer is a character that many can relate to but may not understand ... yet she may make you question why not
June 6, 2019
Beach read. Entertaining, typical romance of hs sweetheart.
December 22, 2019
Good. I’m usually not into romance novels but this had a good plot and message.
December 18, 2025
(Audible) 3.5 stars...The plot was there, but the writing was just ok. I'm not a huge fan of flowery writing and there was a lot of that in here. I did not like the narrator for this one.
September 28, 2023
Do you know how I realize that I am really enjoying a book? It's when all I want to do is curl up on the couch and read till I finish. And that's what I did. I enjoy Summer's story, how she took an awful experience from her teen years and kept on living. Summer was a strong character. Someone to look up to as her son David does. It was interesting to watch the changes the two male characters made in their lives because of her. This was a very engaging read
June 16, 2022
4 1/2stars. I LOVED this book. She did a masterful job of anchoring this story around an extremely difficult and sensitive topic, laying out all of the emotions honestly, rawly and in a truth that spoke to me personally.
April 5, 2018
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This book deals with a lot of heartache, loss and forgiveness. A person's thoughtlessness, inattention, or inebriation can often to lead to hurt feelings, injury or worse. That's what happened to both Summer and Rhett.
Dealing with the repercussions of those actions is a life long struggle and oftentimes its when the victim can forgive the perpetrator for their actions that they can begin to heal themselves. Its not about right or wrong, but acceptance of what has happened and learning to find a new normal for themselves.
The perpetrator of those actions may have to face lots of fears in order to acknowledge what they did or didn't do. Once accepted, its the ability to learn from those mistakes, ask forgiveness if possible and strive to do better. The guilt that some people carry weigh them down to the point that they can never forgive themselves for the hurts they have caused others. Its the forgiveness of the victim that may help the perpetrator learn to love themselves again.
A solid book which I truly enjoyed.
This book deals with a lot of heartache, loss and forgiveness. A person's thoughtlessness, inattention, or inebriation can often to lead to hurt feelings, injury or worse. That's what happened to both Summer and Rhett.
Dealing with the repercussions of those actions is a life long struggle and oftentimes its when the victim can forgive the perpetrator for their actions that they can begin to heal themselves. Its not about right or wrong, but acceptance of what has happened and learning to find a new normal for themselves.
The perpetrator of those actions may have to face lots of fears in order to acknowledge what they did or didn't do. Once accepted, its the ability to learn from those mistakes, ask forgiveness if possible and strive to do better. The guilt that some people carry weigh them down to the point that they can never forgive themselves for the hurts they have caused others. Its the forgiveness of the victim that may help the perpetrator learn to love themselves again.
A solid book which I truly enjoyed.
April 17, 2018
4.5 Stars
Sometimes there is just a perfect fit between an author's voice and a reader. Reading Liz Talley's books remind me of how much I love it when that happens. This one is special.
Talley uses multiple points of view and a narrative that switches between past and present to give her readers a compelling story that packs a powerful emotional punch. Although Summer and Rhett’s romance is essential to the story, this book is more a general fiction/romance hybrid than a conventional romance. There are really no heroes or villains here. While some of their mistakes are more consequential than others, all three of the central characters are faulty, deeply human creatures who struggle to make meaning out of their lives. Each of them grows during the story and eventually achieves new self-awareness and earned happiness. I liked Rhett and developed a degree of sympathy for Hunt, but Summer is my favorite character. Her love for her son and her capacity to forgive—which is NOT the same as forgetting—is amazing.
The secondary characters add more depth to the story. Rhett’s grandfather is a curmudgeon with a good heart, David is a credible adolescent with an endearing sweetness and the errors in judgment common to teenage boys, and Summer’s sister Maisie is an interesting and sympathetic character. Even Hunt’s father, although a jerk of the first order, is more than a stereotype. Additionally, Talley gives a clear sense of Moonlight’s low-country appeal, but she avoids making the town unbelievable idyllic.
I've been a Liz Talley fan since her Boys of the Bayou Harlequin Superromance series, and her Morning Glory books all earned stellar reviews from me. (I look forward to the fourth book in that series set to be released this summer.) Talley has never been afraid to push the boundaries of the genre, and she is particularly adept at weaving stories around the second-chance trope. This is one of her best. The ending left me sighing happily.
If you like stories about flawed characters who fall down and get up--and ultimately grab their second chance, I think you will enjoy Come Home to Me as much as I did. I highly recommend it. One caveat: parts of this book may be a problem for readers for whom non-consensual sex is a trigger, and the cover copy fails to warn of this.
See full review at The Romance Dish:
http://www.theromancedish.com/2018/04...
Sometimes there is just a perfect fit between an author's voice and a reader. Reading Liz Talley's books remind me of how much I love it when that happens. This one is special.
Talley uses multiple points of view and a narrative that switches between past and present to give her readers a compelling story that packs a powerful emotional punch. Although Summer and Rhett’s romance is essential to the story, this book is more a general fiction/romance hybrid than a conventional romance. There are really no heroes or villains here. While some of their mistakes are more consequential than others, all three of the central characters are faulty, deeply human creatures who struggle to make meaning out of their lives. Each of them grows during the story and eventually achieves new self-awareness and earned happiness. I liked Rhett and developed a degree of sympathy for Hunt, but Summer is my favorite character. Her love for her son and her capacity to forgive—which is NOT the same as forgetting—is amazing.
The secondary characters add more depth to the story. Rhett’s grandfather is a curmudgeon with a good heart, David is a credible adolescent with an endearing sweetness and the errors in judgment common to teenage boys, and Summer’s sister Maisie is an interesting and sympathetic character. Even Hunt’s father, although a jerk of the first order, is more than a stereotype. Additionally, Talley gives a clear sense of Moonlight’s low-country appeal, but she avoids making the town unbelievable idyllic.
I've been a Liz Talley fan since her Boys of the Bayou Harlequin Superromance series, and her Morning Glory books all earned stellar reviews from me. (I look forward to the fourth book in that series set to be released this summer.) Talley has never been afraid to push the boundaries of the genre, and she is particularly adept at weaving stories around the second-chance trope. This is one of her best. The ending left me sighing happily.
If you like stories about flawed characters who fall down and get up--and ultimately grab their second chance, I think you will enjoy Come Home to Me as much as I did. I highly recommend it. One caveat: parts of this book may be a problem for readers for whom non-consensual sex is a trigger, and the cover copy fails to warn of this.
See full review at The Romance Dish:
http://www.theromancedish.com/2018/04...
December 3, 2018
Good start, bad end
I just didn’t feel like the characters had the right chemistry. Relationships felt unrealistic. I was rooting against them not for them. The good guy, isn’t really that good. Just disappointing end.
I just didn’t feel like the characters had the right chemistry. Relationships felt unrealistic. I was rooting against them not for them. The good guy, isn’t really that good. Just disappointing end.
May 3, 2018
Emotionally engaging from the first chapter. I had the privilege of meeting this author a couple of months ago at a local RWA chapter and looked her up on Amazon. This is the first book I purchased and I immediately fell in love with the characters. They were realistically flawed but capable of redemption. It's been awhile since I read anything that made me tear up AND gave an HEA. I may have to renew my KU subscription! I can't believe I've never come across Liz Talley before, and I would definitely recommend this author.
September 19, 2023
4.5 stars
I believe this is my first Liz Talley book and it won’t be my last. I read this in 24 hours as I was so invested in these characters.
Talley took a tough subject and handled it beautifully. Forgiveness can happen when your heart and mind are in the right place.
I believe this is my first Liz Talley book and it won’t be my last. I read this in 24 hours as I was so invested in these characters.
Talley took a tough subject and handled it beautifully. Forgiveness can happen when your heart and mind are in the right place.
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