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Already Gone

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Falling in love is easy…New Hope, South Carolina is my home. It’s where I grew up, got into trouble, and fell in love for the first time. Scarlett Kincaid was more than the girl next door, she was my best friend, until she decided that small town life wasn’t for her. The girl I used to fish with down at the creek is now the biggest name in country music, and I haven’t seen her since she left. Until today when she sped through town in her fancy car. One look at her big brown eyes was all it took to stir up a whole slew of emotions. Emotions I’d long ago buried and sure as hell don’t have time for.It’s the aftermath that’s hard…There are two things in my life that matter. My music, and my dad. Twelve years ago, I packed a bag and chased my dream. I never planned to return home, but my father needs me, and he always comes first. So, I cut my tour short and came home, despite having a sister who hates me, and a community that doesn’t trust me. And then there’s Tucker Andrews. When he propped an arm on the roof of my car, pulled down his sunglasses and flashed his police badge, I nearly swallowed my tongue. Gone is the lanky boy who used to throw rocks at me and pull my pigtails. Tucker is now a six-foot package of brawny, sexy man wrapped in more muscle than I have hit singles. Did I mention he’s a cop and a single dad? My goal was to help Dad, and get back to my life. But what am I supposed to do when the life that used to strangle me suddenly fits like a glove, and makes me dream of things I never thought I’d have? I don’t have room for a man much less love. Right?Because it’s impossible to hold onto someone who’s already gone.

226 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 27, 2019

344 people are currently reading
1750 people want to read

About the author

Kristen Proby

140 books16.3k followers
Kristen Proby is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over seventy published titles. She debuted in 2012, captivating fans with spicy contemporary romance about families and friends with plenty of swoony love. She also writes paranormal romance and suggests you keep the lights on while reading them.

When not under deadline, Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband and their fur babies, riding her bike, relaxing with embroidery, trying her hand at painting, and, of course, enjoying her beautiful home in the mountains of Montana.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,299 reviews1,781 followers
August 31, 2019
My Rating:

4.5

Favorite Quote:

It took me until twenty to ditch the scrawny nerd appearance and start to look more like my dad and less like… well, my mom.

My Review:

These two clever wordsmiths tossed in all my favorite tropes with this delectably steamy small-town, second chance, friends-to-lovers romance. The storylines were engaging; the characters were endearing yet amusingly flawed; and the writing was well balanced between angst, conflict, romance, and humor. And written in my favorite dual POV. I was practically levitating with glee. Both authors have impressive backlists yet are relatively new to me - I really need to sharpen my focus and pay better attention.
Profile Image for Gi's Spot Reviews.
1,144 reviews1,366 followers
August 28, 2019

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1pGJ97Ipwx/


4 'You're In My Heart' Stars

Kristen Proby and KL Grayson rocked it! This take on the female lead being the famous one and the combo and feel of small town romance, single dad theme SO did it for me! Refreshing and unique in the best ways, sexy, sweet with just enough angst to grip our hearts and warm our spirit.
Talk about successful collaborations!


Awww, friends to lovers is always a tricky trope for me, but in Already Gone it totally worked. The long separation and passage between teenagers to adult that allowed the shift in their dynamics to occurred, couldn’t have been better crafted, imo.

After twelve years of being gone from home – where she never truly felt home – Scarlett, now a mega country star, is forced to return to help her dad, what she never expect was her cold reception by her town’s people, and specially her ‘secret’ childhood best friend, Tucker, whom she had left being in the past, with no contact.

“What did I do to piss you off?”
“Sweetheart, that list is so long, we’d never get through it.”

He smells like soap, and he makes me yearn for things I never knew I wanted.


Of course she now needs to prove to all how she isn’t as self centered as everyone thinks her to be. And I have to say this was the one point that kind of aggravated me, was her personality, which sometimes, not always really irritated me, lol. That being said we could feel her effort to show her true depth, and slowly we witnessed her blossom and expose her sweet and caring nature. I could feel her deep love for those around her, it just took them a bit to trust it.

Tucker, apart from a self assumed poor choice in the selection of bed partner in the past – I actually didn’t see much point in the connection of the identity of Chloe’s mom and Scarlett, but considering she was a no show, didn’t affect my judgement of him. I adore a good single dad romance, and Tucker, was a spectacular daddy to his little girl!

Not only that, but we could feel how his teen crush turned slowly into mature love, and how vulnerable he felt in his emotions where Scar was concerned. Once they got together though, it was a joy to see the family (whole of it) dynamic. And their connection, and attraction… Oh boy, it was SCORCHING!!!

I don’t know what’s going to happen between us, but I know that this—whatever this is—feels right.

My dreams were nothing compared to the reality of having her in my arms.

He’s home for me. He always has been.


Scarlett and Tucker’s love story was not only gripping, but as per usual with these authors, we are left feeling such a deep satisfaction and happy warm feeling of coming home. And that Epilogue was just perfection!

Already Gone combined all the enticing elements for fantastic love story, and Ms. Proby and Ms. Grayson more than delivered! Sweet and sexy with the perfect amount of emotional conflict to hook us not only to these two, but all the intriguing secondary characters. So much so that I am now begging them to turn this amazing world into a series, and give us Dean and Scooter’s stories!!!! <3 <3 <3 <3

“I love you so much I ache with it,” he whispers as if each word is painful to admit. “And I’m afraid you’ll destroy me before all is said and done.”

When I tell you I love you, I mean it. You’re in my heart, and I have no plans of that changing. Ever.”




ARC kindly provided by the authors via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review



For full review with Blog Tour, check out my Blog post,
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Profile Image for Stacie.
2,551 reviews274 followers
September 10, 2019
2 3/4 "A little communication and compromise go a long way." Stars!

Okay, so this one started out with so much potential. I was going along in my happy little "This is going to be just like a Hallmark movie." bubble, then I keep reading. Enter Lexi, Scarlett's sister. She is a major *itch!!! Then as the story continues, we get through the happy and hot, get to the conflict and Tucker turns into a major jackass! That's not all that unusual and I've been known to love a jackass or two in my reading days but these two just started to get on my nerves. The conflict was just unnecessary. The solution was clear from the very start. But the biggest problem I had with this story was that Scarlet took all the responsibility for the problems with her sister and Tucker even though they were both super mean to her. I just didn't like how this one played out. The conflict, not the ending. I just started rolling my eyes real hard toward the end.

On a positive note, the first 60-ish % was really good! This was super hot and had some very sweet moments. Neither main character was bad, just annoying mostly. I loved Chloe, Tucker's daughter. She and Scarlet had a cool relationship from the beginning. The kids are always a positive for me. Happy reading!
Profile Image for Jo - •.★Reading Is My Bliss★.•.
2,429 reviews238 followers
August 26, 2019
Scarlett left New Hope with a dream to make it big in the music industry, basing herself in Nashville it wasn’t too long before her dreams came true. She is now a successful country music star and travels the world, filling stadiums with her adoring fans.

‘I love fame because it was my ticket out of New Hope, South Carolina, the small town where I was born, raised, and never truly fit in. It wasn’t until my boots hit the bustling streets of Nashville Tennessee, that I felt at home.’

When she receives a phone call from her sister about her father falling ill, she drops everything to get home to him. It’s been too long since she has been back in New Hope and to be honest, the timing could not be better for her. She has recently survived a very public relationship disaster so getting away from the intense spotlight is just what she needs. Quietly slipping back into town doesn’t go quite as she planned when she is pulled over for speeding by a local cop. Not just any cop, Tucker Andrews.

Tucker was her childhood friend who is definitely now all man. He also lives next door to Scarlett’s father so she will no doubt be seeing a lot of him. She had no idea how much she had missed being home until she is back. Spending time with her dad and taking care of him will take the pressure off her sister and hopefully take aware some of the animosity she has towards Scarlett.

One of the surprising things about being home is finding out that Tucker is a single dad to a gorgeous daughter called Chloe. Scarlett and Chloe form an instant friendship which melts Tuckers heart. On the one hand he is weary of getting his daughter’s hopes up that Scarlett will keep up the friendship once she goes back on tour but the other loves how much Chloe enjoys being around a woman on a regular basis.

Scarlett had no idea that things would change so much in the short time she is home. She wasn’t looking for love but it found her, Tucker and his daughter managed to burrow themselves into her heart and it devastates her to have to leave them. Tucker cannot follow her to Nashville, his whole life and family are in New Hope. He wants nothing more than to keep Scarlett forever. He can see the potential life that they could have together.

‘I love you, so much I ache with it’, he whispers as if each word is painful to admit. ‘And I’m afraid you’ll destroy me before all is said and done.’

Scarlett is feeling pulled in all directions, her career, her family and Tucker. Can she really have it all? This story is filled with plenty of doses of cute, sweet and swoony moments in equal measure. A gorgeous indulgent read.
Profile Image for Amy .
3,123 reviews
August 27, 2019
4.5 Stars!!

“With just that little touch, it’s as if the whole world is set to rights.”

Ah! I just loved this book!! When I first heard that K.L. Grayson and Kristen Proby would be writing a book together, I was over the moon. This was like Christmas coming early for me. I was so excited to see what this duo would bring to the table and that excitement lead to Already Gone being one of my most anticipated reads for 2019. And I’m here to tell you, this duo does not disappoint. They brough their A game to the table and left me hanging on each and every word….

Already Gone follows the story of Scarlett and Tucker and is told from dual points of view. When we first meet up with Scarlett, we discover that the girl next door acheived her dreams of stardom. Small town living wasn’t for her, and she never looked back. But, when her father falls ill, Scarlett is forced to return home. But, not everyone is happy that Scarlett is coming home. When she left New Hope behind, she didn’t just leave the town and her family behind, but she also left her best friend Tucker. And lets just say, Tucker isn’t super quick to forgive. Tucker can hold quite the grudge, but soon enough will find the error of his ways. There’s more to Scarlett than meets the eye and being back home makes Scarlett feel and think of things she had forgotten. Suddenly things between Scarlett and Tucker aren’t so black and white. Feelings change and evolve, and when it comes to love, Scarlett will find herself in for the fight of her life….

There is just so much to love about Already Gone. This book sucked me in from the very first page and held my heart captive the entire time. From the moment I met Scarlett and Tucker, I just knew these two were going to take my emotions for a wild ride. Despite all the time these two had been apart, the sexual tension between the two of them was just off the charts. Both of these characters had a lot of growing to do and feelings to overcome. Everything wasn’t as it seemed and neither one of them were the same people they used to be. But, what I loved was that when Tucker and Scarlett decided to do something, they went all in. They weren’t afraid of the fight or work they had to put in. Sure, they had their moments of imprefection, but those imperfect moments made me love them all the more.

Already Gone had a mix of all my favorite tropes. It was a small town, single dad, enemies to lovers, second chance romance that I just could not get enough of. Tucker and Scarlett’s story tugged on my heart in all the right ways. It was angsty and swoon worthy perfection. I just couldn’t get enough and loved all the little moments.

Already Gone is a fantasitc read from beginning to end. K.L. Grayson and Kristen Proby totally knocked this story out of the park. It was totally well written, filled with lots of heart, and still kept the signature style that I have come to know and love from these two ladies. I loved every second of Already Gone and can not wait to see what this duo will bring to the table next!

*I was provied an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Christine (Shh Moms Reading).
1,453 reviews569 followers
August 25, 2019
I love the best friends to lovers troupe...especially combined with small town romance.
Scarlett hasn’t been back to New Hope in years, returning now to care for her dad. What she doesn’t expect to find is love in her best friend growing up Tucker who is now a gorgeous single dad and police officer in their town.
I loved their chemistry, Scarlett’s connection to his daughter Chloe. Despite Scarlett’s fame, her interactions with her fans and the town’s people made her seem so down to earth. I never really understood her sister’s anger toward her but was so happy when they were able to move past those issues to be a family.
I did wish that this book was longer and that there was more time between Tucker and Scarlett’s first meeting to when they became something more bec it did feel slightly rushed to me.
I love Grayson’s writing and this is my first Proby book...I enjoyed reading this duo together ❤️
Profile Image for swedishruler B.
332 reviews153 followers
Read
August 27, 2019
He’s got a kid with another. Nope 👎🏻 single dad is so not my thing.
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,632 reviews173 followers
August 17, 2019
Brilliant !!

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I really enjoyed this book. I knew I would whatever Kristen Proby writes I luv. But I haven't read anything by K.L. Grayson but after this book I will have to look up her books. The story was really good I'm a sucker for this type of romance. I liked that the characters weren't together together before but we're best friend that were close. There history wasn't alway smooth but they still luvd each other. I really liked watching there relationship grow even stronger than it was before. Things were a lot different now both Tucker and Scarlett lives were very different. So it wasn't goin to be easy for them. But when there attraction was that strong they had to try and make it work.

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The characters in this book were really good I luvd Scarlett and Tucker but the secondary characters were just as good. Chloe Tickets daughter is so sassy for her age I luvd her. Having girls her age myself I felt for Tucker but what a dad he is and Scarlett fit so well into there lil family it was so cute. I also really liked Rick Scarlett's dad the lil match maker he was so funny even no his best and he was still trying to get Scarlett and Tucker together.

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I would highly recommend this book everything was so good about it Rockstar and Friends to lovers is my favourite. The story was really good it flowed really well and I luvd the writing. I really hope these authors write more books together again.

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Profile Image for Anna.
1,090 reviews7 followers
April 2, 2020
Didn't like it
They were best friends once, how they are reunited.
They are acting like friends, then lovers, they having sex, ok. So it's almost several weeks. And hero acting like stupid. He asked her to quite her singer career for him!!! After 3 weeks together...
Not for me. He was very jealous, too much possessive...
Nah
Not for me
Profile Image for Anne OK.
4,100 reviews553 followers
May 12, 2022

It has been several years since I've read a book by Proby. Been a rough couple of weeks so I found myself seeking lightweight reading material -- and up popped a trip to Nashville and some country music along with a second chance at love.

Nothing shocking or new but it kept me entertained without much brain power required. Steamy romance with the usual angst and some comical relief from the sidekick backup cast.
Profile Image for Elle Golden.
Author 5 books61 followers
August 22, 2019
A sweet love story.

This is kind of a second chance romance between a single dad cop and country popstar.

Scarlett and Tucker have known each other since they were really young, but after she left to pursue her dreams, he was left behind, as well as her family.

When Scarlett's father gets sick, she is forced to face her hometown again and make some the ammends that are long overdue.

It was sweet and funny, and the secondary characters were awesome (and I honestly hope we can get Dean and Scooter's books as well).
But the point is that I loved them more than I did the hero and heroine.

Scalett had a big heart, we could see that. But she was also selfish and spoiled. There were times I couldn't even believe she was a grown woman. Chloe could be even more mature, and she was only eleven.
Tucker was an amazing father and he accomplished so much, but he was really insecured for a man who raised a kid all by himself and became a respected cop.

Of course both of their careers were important, and I loved that they valued that, but Scarlett seemed to think that all she had to do was throw some money and everything would be all right, people would love, everyone would forgive her for being absent.

In general, I liked the story and and enjoyed myself reading it. I mean, I love romance, and this book has it!
But as I said, I loved the secondary characters more, so I can't wait to meet them again.
Profile Image for Sheri.
933 reviews26 followers
August 14, 2019
LOVED this book!! Full review to come.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,875 reviews213 followers
September 9, 2019


"What did I do to piss you off?"
"Sweetheart, that list is so long, we'd never get through it."
Scarlett has not stepped foot back in her hometown in years. She left everyone and everything behind to chase her music dreams (and succeeded), but her father's had a stroke and he needs her, so she's come back. She surely was not expecting to be pulled over by her former best friend for speeding, and to promptly receive a ticket from said former best friend. She has no idea (REALLY?!?!) why Tucker is so pissed at her, pissed enough to give her a ticket for being a tiny bit over the speed limit (75 in a 45).



All the years Tucker and Scarlett were best friends, he loved her. But when she took off and didn't look back, it did something to him. He's not gotten over his anger, but he also hadn't gotten over his love for her. But he knows better than to start anything with the woman who will just take off again, with his heart, AGAIN. Can Scarlett convince Tucker she's either home to stay, or that they can have both a relationship AND her career where she travels most of the year and misses all the important moments in Chloe's (Tucker's daughter) life?

For the most part, I really liked Already Gone. It's fun and witty, Scarlett's sass clashes beautifully with Tucker, and it's more than a little sexy. But, and there's only one but, I have to admit I didn't really fall for Scarlett the way I fell for Tucker, Chloe and the rest of the cast. She was seriously selfish, self-absorbed, and clueless for most of the story, so much so that I found myself really wishing Tucker had been paired with someone worthy of him. That was really the only problem - I didn't feel Scarlett was worthy of Tucker. Aside from that tiny detail, though, I liked this story and am looking forward to more in this world.



ARC via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.

Full review ---> Live Through Books Blog.

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Profile Image for Vanessa (nessreads).
986 reviews
August 27, 2019
4.5 Stars

Y’all know single dad books are my kryptonite, seriously they make me weak in the knees. So it was no surprise right from the get-go Already Gone was right up my alley.

It’s been twelve years since Scarlett’s been home after making a name for herself and becoming a famous country singer. But when she receives a phone call from her sister, it has Scarlett dropping everything and returning back to the place that she couldn’t get out of fast enough. And although her welcome home isn’t quite what she thought it would be, it doesn’t take long to reconnect and fit right in, especially with her one true friend, Tucker.

It’s been years since Tucker’s seen Scarlett, and he isn’t all that happy about her return to New Hope. He’s still holding onto anger and is bitter about her leaving and that she never reached out. More so though, he’s hurt because he thought they were friends. Another thing is is that Tucker always felt more for Scarlett, but she never knew that. But now, they’re getting to know each other as adults and forming an even better friendship which ultimately leads to something more.

It was no denying the chemistry between Scarlett and Tucker. Their undeniable attraction was evident from the start. There were things they had to work through and a few bumps along the way, but it only made their relationship stronger. And being together ultimately came down to compromise.

Already Gone gave me so many feels. I absolutely loved everything about this book. The characters were so down to earth and relatable. It was perfectly paced with no unnecessary drama. I hope there’s more to come from this writing duo because I want more!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book*
Profile Image for Happily Mary After.
1,013 reviews139 followers
August 28, 2019
Kristen Proby and K.L. Grayson’s Already Gone is a witty, sexy and poignant friends-to-lovers, small-town romance that you don’t want to miss. Scarlett and Tucker were best friends growing up, but she fled their small town as soon as she was able to chase her dream of being a country singer, and she hasn’t looked back or been back home in years. Scarlett has achieved success beyond her wildest dreams and is now a superstar, who still has no interest in going home, so when her dad has a stroke and she’s forced to return, she’s not thrilled. She comes face to face with Tucker and discovers he’s no longer a scrawny nerd but rather a hunky cop and single father, who is quite angry with her for abandoning their friendship. But for all his bluster, he still cares for her and is also extremely attracted to her. As Scarlett struggles with her feelings about her hometown while reestablishing her relationship with Tucker, she begins to see him differently. With plenty of charm and all of the feels, Already Gone is a must-read.

ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
Recommendation appeared on Frolic on August 28, 2019.
Profile Image for Suzi (Obsessive Reading Disorder).
2,232 reviews
August 30, 2019
This is a sweet second chance romance by these two authors. A little bit of angst but for the most part, just a swoony read. Add in a single parent and things could be just about perfect.

Scarlett and Tucker go way back. Tuck was a nerd and Scarlett was a mean girl. But years have separated their friendship and there is still some hurt over how everything went down. Now Scarlett is back and things seem to want to move beyond the friend zone. When they finally give in to what they both have been feeling, the chemistry becomes explosive.

The book takes a typical route but it doesn't make reading it any less enjoyable. Loved Chloe to pieces. I also liked the rest of Tucker's family. The dynamic between them and their humor made for some great reading.

I look forward to more books by writing team. Hopefully we get to come back to this small town again and catch up on everyone here.

*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Courtney.
1,976 reviews208 followers
August 30, 2019
I am a sucker for small town romance. I love the nuisances that come with small towns and how everyone is very close knit.

Already Gone is a second chance, enemies to lovers romance from two authors but you wouldn't know that as their writing compliments one another very well.

I really wanted to love this book more than I did. At the beginning, I loved how things started out. I enjoyed the interactions between Tucker and his daughter, Chloe; seeing Scarlett connect to Chloe was very sweet.

I felt that things were a bit rushed between Tucker and Chloe. I wanted more from them. I wanted to see Scarlett grovel a little more for just up and leaving. I get that she flew her dad to concerts but she never really kept in contact with her family so I totally get where her sister is coming from. A small town community means everyone is extremely tight and leaving like that hurts, ALOT.

Overall, while I did enjoy the interactions between the characters and the writing was amazing, I was left wanting more. For me, it was just an ok read.
Profile Image for Crystal.
349 reviews33 followers
August 12, 2019
I have seriously been waiting for this day for what seems like forever! Two of my all time favorite authors co-wrote a book and it is unbelievable. I finished this one in less than 24 hours.

The writing was so good. Honestly flowed so well. You wouldn’t know it was composed by two different authors. They took you right there to New Hope South Carolina and everywhere in between.

Everything about this book from the details in the different POV from both Scarlett and Tucker to the cover.... simple perfection. Childhood best friends reconnecting after over a decade of silence... this is seriously so swoon worthy!

If I could rate higher than 5 stars, I would. It deserves it.

If you are looking for that beautiful small town romance, with a single dad.... this is your book. The perfect love story with the best Happily Ever After!
Profile Image for Robyn.
2,379 reviews131 followers
March 19, 2024
Already Gone

New Hope, South Carolina vs Nashville Tennesse. A famous world-known singer and a small-town cop with a child in tow trying to get over the heartbreak and resentment of growing up next to each other. When Daddy has a stroke, the bitch sister makes it Scarlette's fault and him her responsibility.

I guess that these two never heard of Dolly's agreement with her husband because it took them almost the whole book to figure it out.

3 stars

Happy Reading!


Profile Image for AJ.
3,244 reviews1,069 followers
August 26, 2019
3.5 stars

This is a cute little read. A small-town childhood-friends-to-lovers romance between a hugely successful country star, and the boy from next door that she grew up with – now a single father. It’s chock-full of fun romantic tropes, and I really enjoyed it.

Scarlett Kincaid is the biggest name in country music. Performing sold-out shows all over the world, she is living the life that she always dreamed of and loving every moment of it. But when news reaches her that her father is unwell, she drops everything to go to his side, returning home for the first time in 12 years to the town she was so desperate to get away from and never planned to return to, a sister who hates her and an old friend who wants nothing to do with her.

Tucker Andrews was Scarlett’s best friend growing up, and he was left broken hearted and feeling very much alone when she left. Her return sparks a whirlwind of emotions in him, and as she moves in to her old family home – still next door – sparks fly as these old friends-now-enemies battle their oh-so obvious attraction and start to unpack all of the pain from the past.

“You haven’t been home. For twelve fucking years. You’re so goddamn selfish. You just up and left your friends, your family. Everyone. And you never looked back. Not once.”
“Hold grudges much?” But it’s not bitchy. In fact, she looks completely flummoxed.
“I’m not holding a fucking grudge, Scarlett. I’m hurt.”
Good Lord, Scooter is right. I grew a fucking vagina.

It’s fun and flirty and full of snark and banter, but as Scarlett and Tucker start to get on the same page, their relationship shifts and changes, and all of that chemistry becomes a beautifully sweet and passionate romance. Easy, natural, and super steamy, they find their groove and fall into a relationship that neither of them were looking for, and with Tucker’s adorable daughter Chloe completing the picture of the perfect family, everything looks rosy.

Suddenly Scarlett’s priorities are shifting… but her celebrity lifestyle doesn’t mesh with small-town living and family life. There’s a lot of soul-searching required for the two of them to get their happy ending, and it comes with a share of heartache.

“I love you so much I ache with it,” he whispers as if each word is painful to admit. “And I’m afraid you’ll destroy me before all is said and done.”

I really enjoyed this book. It’s sweet, fun and flirty with a sexy and emotional romance, and I loved watching Scarlett and Tucker find their way forward together. There is some drama and angst, but it’s minimal, and the story ends in a great place with a beautiful epilogue that finishes everything off beautifully.

I know without a doubt that she’s it.
This girl is my forever.

There are a fun bunch of side characters introduced, and I wonder if we’ll get to revisit the small town of New Hope and see them have their stories told? Tucker’s brother, Dean, and cousin, Scooter, in particular look ripe for love and I’d be really keen to read more about them.

Fun, sweet and easy, I really liked this one – 3.5 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.


Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
August 30, 2019
3.5 stars

A country music darling returns to her hometown to care for her father following a stroke and must make amends not only with her sister, but the boy she left behind when she blew out of town twelve years ago. Already Gone was a cute and enjoyable story, but a bit simplistic and predictable which was disappointing.

Scarlett is on the road when she learns her father had a stroke forcing her to cancel the last few shows of her tour to head to her hometown where she hasn’t been since she left over a decade ago. Right there, I had issues with the story because there was no big reason for her to never come home. She loves her dad and while she and her sister are at odds I felt like a lot of that was due to her never returning home. It was never explained or explored and even the busiest of people find time to go home once in a while. While Scarlett can be sweet and generous to a fault, it is also obvious she is use to having things her way and people bending to her will. She often came off a bit spoiled and uncompromising and self important, but then she’d turn around and do something really sweet so I felt like her character wasn’t flushed out very well.

Tucker is a local police officer and was Scarlett’s best friend growing up, well at least away from school. At school she wasn’t very nice to him, but he cherished their time together so he let it go. He’s a single dad since the day his daughter was born and has raised an intelligent, mostly sweet, curious pre-teen. I liked Tucker a lot, but would have really enjoyed knowing more about him.

When Scarlett and Tucker were together it was easy to see they cared for one another and they fell right back into the friendship they’d had for so long with now added benefits. I did enjoy the time they spent with one another and the sexy times were hot, however I wanted to see them communicate more about what was happening between them instead of fighting about it over and over. These were two seemingly intelligent individuals, but they just seemed to f*ck and fight instead of sitting down and figuring out what they wanted out of the relationship and how the future looked to them and it frustrated me. I found them to be petty and immature.

I did appreciate that Scarlett was completely enamored with Tucker’s daughter, Chloe and made sure to include her in her life separately from what she had with her dad. It helped the Chloe and Tucker spent time with Scarlett’s dad over the years and Chloe had heard a lot about Scarlett from both her father and Scarlett’s dad.

Already Gone was a light, enjoyable book and I was more than satisfied with the ending, however I wanted more substance, I wanted rational adults who communicate and I wanted to see growth in the characters and sadly none of that happened.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,094 reviews93 followers
August 13, 2019
* A review copy was provided by the authors *

~ 5 One True Love Stars ~

Well, well, well….I have found another writing duo that I absolutely LOVE!!!! I have read all of Kristen Proby’s books, but K.L. Grayson is a new author to me. I knew the minute Kristen announced this book that I was going to read it no matter what. I am so glad I did. Now I have a new author to check out and hopefully fall in love with.

Already Gone is a friends to lovers standalone novel. It is told in Dual POV and I thought it was totally swoony and sweet. This book flow effortlessly and you won’t be able to tell who wrote what part. I think Kristen Proby and K.L. Grayson write flawlessly together and I hope that they continue to collaborate on books in the future. (I wouldn’t mind a book about Dean or Scooter in the future….just a thought ;) ) I also loved the small town feel of this book. It’s written so well I wanted to be in New Hope SC myself.

In this book we follow Scarlett and Tucker’s story. Scarlett and Tucker have known each other since they were kids. They were best friends as kids, but Scarlett always knew that small town living wasn’t for her. So when she had the chance to leave New Hope, she took it without looking back!!! Now it’s a decade later and she is coming home to take care of her father who is sick. Can these two best friends find away to forgive each other?? Will Tucker be able to find happiness with Scarlett?? Read this book to find out.

I have to say I loved Tucker and Scarlett’s story so much, I couldn’t help but root for them to get their HEA. I thought they were the perfect match. I also liked the secondary characters we meet in this story. Rick, Chloe, Dean and Scooter were great additions to the storyline. Lexi on the other hand, I wanted to throat punch her a couple of times. I am glad to see over the course of the book she was able to change her ways though and open up to her sister.

If you are a fan of rock star romances or friends to lover stories, then this is a book you should definitely read!! I found this story to be absolutely a delight to read and it is perfect for a beach day. This was entertaining, swoony and sexy all rolled into one. Make sure to add this book to your TBR list!!!

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Profile Image for Brianna at Renee Entress's Blog.
3,918 reviews118 followers
August 29, 2019
5 Stars!

OH MY GOODNESS! If I could give this new romance 10 STARS y'all, I totally would. I'm a seasoned pro with Kristen Proby *she's a top 10 for me* but K.L. Grayson is brand new to me and damn did these ladies absolutely kill this beautiful book- delivering a flawless, seamless romance packed with so much heart, heat, swoon, sweetness, steam, and passion.

Already Gone is an all-new, easy, emotional, small town, friends to lovers, second chance of sorts, dual point of view, contemporary romance that will steal your heart, keep you hooked until the very last word, and leave you completely breathless in so. many. moments.

Tucker and Scarlett. They were the best of friends growing up until she left town, never looking back and making something big of herself. A decade has passed and she never had plans to return until she's forced back, putting her right back there and in the past... more specifically in front of him. Tucker. Fate. It's been years since she left and broke his heart and others in her small town. He's a single dad, cop, and a different guy than the one she left behind all those years ago. Everything is so different between them now and everything is super complicated.

Tucker and Scarlett have to hurdle through past and heal from those complications in order to have an even better, brighter future. What starts out rocky grows into a friendship that grows into something so much more beautiful and all encompassing and so very, very worth it.

Epic. Intense. Unputdownable. Completely unforgettable in every single way. THIS BOOK is why I read romance. THIS BOOK is an absolute must read by everyone who loves romance!

I highly recommend this book.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
Profile Image for Karrilynn.
155 reviews
August 18, 2019
Already Gone by Kristen Proby and KL Grayson

This writing duo’s new book, Already Gone, was a wonderful collaboration of talent that showcased each author’s strengths and produced an amazing love story.

Scarlett Kincaid, Nashville’s Mega Country Music Star, travels back home to her hometown of New Hope, SC to help a sick family member, but she ends up running into her childhood best friend that she left behind when she left home over 10+ yrs ago to start her career.

Tucker Anderson, New Hope Police Officer and childhood best friend, has had a long time crush on Scarlett. Tucker is coming to terms with Scarlett returning home, but also with the feelings he’s had for her since 3rd grade.

Let me just say, this is one of the best books I’ve read in 2019! Filled with everything you would want in a romance novel . . . a great love story, family (both love and conflict) and lots of humor (enter cousin Scooter 😉). I loved that this book was written as a stand alone, but would love to see more from this writing duo in the future. I’m not sure I have ever laughed so hard while reading a romance novel (Scooter). This book was excellent and I know it will be one I revisit in the future.
Profile Image for Tracey Jerald.
Author 46 books1,310 followers
August 27, 2019
Reading Already Gone by Kristen Proby and KL Grayson was like listening to my new favorite song. Their voices blended together so beautifully it wasn't a duet, but a melody sang by one perfect voice chapter after chapter.

Scarlett and Tucker, two childhood friends who felt so much more, spend most of the book trying to find just the right pitch in their relationship to do just that. She's the girl who left their small town for stardom and never looked back. He's the boy who stayed behind and dug roots that shouldn't be removed. But the one thing that can't be denied is the undeniable chemistry between them that time can't erase. The question is whether or not time has taught them their song can be beautiful even if it's not perfect?

Readers of both Kristen Proby and KL Grayson should already have this ready to read. And if you're new to them, it's a great introduction to the feisty heroines and strong heroes both women are known for writing.
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,588 reviews77 followers
August 29, 2019
5 star

I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, sweet love, second chances, and heartbreak.

This is Scarlett and Tucker’s story. They grew up together, but she left him behind. She went and pursued her dreams. But now her dad needs her, and she will do anything to help him. So back to her hometown she goes. Where she runs into Tucker looking better then he ever did. She is still drawn to him, but he has moved on and is a single dad to his child. She has a career that she will have to get back to also. They can’t try for a future as he is here in town and she will have to go back to her life. Of can she settle down an have the one she always wanted forever?

I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Tania's Book Blog.
1,720 reviews21 followers
August 27, 2019
Cute friends to lovers/single dad story. Scarlet and Tucker were best friends growing up. They were from a small town that was too small for Scarlet. She never knew his Tucker felt about her. At 18 she left when she blew up and became a superstar and never looked back. Fast forward 12 years she returns and Tucker is now a single dad that despises her but still has feelings for her. Scarlet is a sweetheart and tries her hardest and unplanned her and Tucker fall into a relationship. It was cute especially since his daughter loves her. They had their moments which at time Scarlet seemed selfish but she came to her senses and made it work. One thing for sure Scarlet was funny. I really enjoyed her relationship with Tucker’s daughter Chloe and Tucker was amazing.
Profile Image for Stacey.
1,032 reviews39 followers
January 2, 2024
Scarlett is back in her small town to help her dad who just suffered a stroke. She’s been gone for 12 years living her dream of being a singer.

Tucker is the town sheriff and also a single dad. When he spots Scarlett in town he’s mad. He loved her and she left him to be a performer.

Over time, they talk and rekindle their love. Scarlett steps up as a mother figure for his daughter and they fall into a pattern of being a mini family. That is until her dad is better and her career is calling.

Tropes:
Singer/Cop
Second Chance
Small Town
Single Dad
Forced Proximity
Profile Image for Sarah.
91 reviews
August 24, 2019
I loved this book! I was able to read it in about 2 hours and I was hooked from the first page. I loved the best friend second chance aspect of this book. It was everything I was hoping for. Scarlett is a a great heroine, she's feisty, strong, and loving. I love her relationship with Chloe, her Dad, and Tucker. Tucker is a little rough at first but I love that he's so fast to fall for Scarlett. The story went fast but didn't feel rushed and I will definitely be re-reading it soon and would definitely read about book by these 2 amazing authors.
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