It Was Always You

by Andrea Johnston

A childhood best friend romance with a twist.You know how the story goes . . . Boy and girl are childhood best friends. Boy moves away and devastates girl. Years later, two strangers meet on the internet and one of them has a secret.Or two.When Ally Honeycutt rushes home to her small town of Pickerton Grove she never expected to find her once best friend working at his family's business. No longer the small little boy she once chased lightning bugs with,Drew Collins would give any sinful rock star a run for his money. With soulful dark brown eyes and hair that slips easily through her fingers, she's less worried about what he keeps trying to tell her and more interested in the way his lips feel on hers.Drew Collins has made a lot of mistakes in his life, the last one landing him behind bars. He never dreamed a single dare would find him back in contact with the first girl he ever loved. Ally Honeycutt is everything good in the world, and his mistakes make him the bad boy every fictional girl dreams of. Now if he could only stop falling in love long enough to tell her the secrets that could ruin it all. They say you can't go home again but what happens when home is in the heart of your best friend?

Genres: Romance, Friends To Lovers, Contemporary, Second Chance, Contemporary Romance

226 pages, Paperback

First published September 19, 2019

About the author

A romantic at heart, Andrea has always been a storyteller. An avid reader since a young age, she never planned to pen her own romance novel but, on a whim, and with no plan, she discovered her passion. Known for her slow burn small town romances, Andrea prides herself on writing relatable characters that the reader cheers for and secondary characters who bring the sass and laughs to each story.

Settled in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and dog, she counts down the days when her adult children come home for a visit. Even if it means more laundry!

Reviews

[Ally.Always.Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book friends, you definitely don't want to miss this book!
It Was Always You is an amazing read with lots of laughs and a ton of heart!

This book is EVERYTHING! I love it so much!!
I laughed.
I cried.
I sat with a horrifyingly creepy, giddy smile on my face.
I sat with my fists clenched and my heart in my throat.
I felt every emotion!

It was perfect and I honestly couldn't have asked for anything better!

It's got the sweet, small town Andrea Johnston feel. And the childhood friends to lovers with a twist was just... ah! It was SO GOOD!

[M.E. Carter]

So cute. I needed that brain break.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrea Johnston definitely delivered a unique plot line with this friends to lovers/second chance story line. It was filled with sweet memories and a unique rekindling of a friendship. Andy and Ally were best friends growing up until the age of about 11 and then things went downhill due to circumstances they couldn't control. Andrea peppered this story with cute scenarios and a friendship that was beyond adorable. The only reason this wasn't a five star read for me was because I still couldn't really connect with the characters and their friendship - I felt like it moved too fast and we didn't get enough backstory to develop their friendship - probably was just me though. This was definitely a cute read - I'm a huge fan of friends to more and this definitely delivered on that count. Andrea Johnston always delivers the sweetest stories :)

[Megan | A Page to Turn · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this book is VERY LOOSELY based on a popular, yet strange, reality television show, it was done in a way that is true to the author's version of Hallmark-esque small town romance. This story is one of love lost and found... childhood best friends who lost touch, just to find each other again in one of the most unconventional ways. She sold me on this one, and I went in not knowing what I would think, or what to expect. I laughed, I cried, I swooned and I fell in love with this town and the people in it. I also want some PIE!

I loved getting to see this story unfold in a dual POV.... throw in a temperamental cat, a sassy Granny, and a few other supportive secondary characters and you have what I call an "Andrea Johnston Romance". Its her own brand, and this one does not disappoint! These characters brought this story to life, and made me fall in love with them.

[Andrea]

Coming to your Kindle on September 19, 2019 this childhood friends to lovers small town romance is sure to make you smile and laugh while you fall a little in love with the hero.

Cover Reveal: September 6, 2019
Release Day: September 19, 2019

Bloggers sign up ➡️ https://goo.gl/forms/aPLQ014Bgc7iy3nv2

[Kacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It Was Always You by Andrea Johnson

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I have been a fan of Andrea Johnson’s for a few years now. One of my favorite things about her is the amazing small town books she writes. Being from an insanely small town, I can attest that she is 100% on point. She also writes stories that are fresh and new. How many books have you read that were based off of a reality tv show? I didn’t know life after prison shows or dating sites, for that matter, were a thing! But she took a weird-ish concept and made it work in the best possible way!

It Was Always You has everything I love. Romance, comedy, chemistry, strong friendships, angst, and a crazy Granny! I love Ally! I found her relatable in the way that she’s a homebody, introverted, and a job that I’d love to have! She is kind, loving, forgiving, and nonjudgmental. Her family, especially her Granny has me laughing! Drew, sigh. My heart broke for him, because of his childhood after leaving Ally. He was stuck with an awful woman for a mother and trying to gain her attention set him on a bad path. But I believe that bad path led him straight back to his Ally. I love that he had Gary to turn to and that he was there for him.

I found Ally and Drew’s relationship effortless. They seemed to pick back up like no time was lost. They remembered the good but also kept learning more about each other. It warmed my heart to see their small town cheering them on, and knowing they were destined to be together.

There were only two problems I had with this story. 1. It should have been much longer! 2. Who puts cheese on pie?!

[Rach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrea Johnston knows how to write small-town romance. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. I love how she never makes her conflict over-the-top and the pacing is suited to the small-town feel of her stories. In IT WAS ALWAYS YOU, Ally and Drew draw on their friendship from the past to help build a relationship in the now. I wish we had seen a little more of their childhood interactions rather than being told how it was, but on the other hand, I appreciated staying in the present and staying in the moment with Ally and Drew. I liked that there wasn't anything stereotypical about the town or the characters, but that Andrea still gave us everything we like about small-towns. I enjoyed the chemistry between Ally and Drew.

[Melenareads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrea Johnston has a knack for writing small-town romance, and Ally and Drew's story is a friends to more story with a twist.

I really enjoyed the unique plot and Andrea's writing style. Ally and Drew were childhood friends who find each other again as adults and their connection is still there and growing stronger. There's also a number of other characters including Granny who make the story fun.

The story moves at a pretty good pace and I found myself invested in it from the beginning.

If you are a fan of Andrea's work or enjoy small-town romance you will definitely enjoy this one!

Thank you to the author providing an ARC for an honest review.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is loosely based off of the reality tv show Life After Lockup. I’ve never watched an episode and wasn’t sure I’d like this story but wanted to read it because I love Andrea Johnston’s small town voice.

I wasn’t surprised I loved it or that it well written. What I was surprised about was the fact I didn’t put it down until I was finished.

This was a wonderful, fun, laugh-out-loud, emotion laced sweetheart of a read. I highly recommend it if you’re a fan of romance, small towns, 2nd chances, or friends to lovers.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a book that makes me feel. This one hit them all. I laughed out loud. I got teary eyed. I was sad. I was hopeful. I was happy! The fact that Love After Lockup
sparked the idea for this book intrigued me. And I was not disappointed with how that played out! I wanted to hang out with Ally (& Didi). Drool over Drew working on a car. Bake a pie & sip some tea with Granny. I was drawn into the story and felt as if I knew the characters! And that cover people! Fabulous!!! If you love a small town romance and/or a friends to lovers, this one is for you!

[Jaime Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet friends to lovers romance with a little bit of a twist thrown in. I love reality tv and true crime so I was a bit excited at the concept of this story. Drew and Ally are old friends who cross paths years later...but not in the usual way. Loved these two with Granny probably being my favorite in this story. I laughed at moments and and also felt both of their struggles and emotions. One you do not want to miss if you love friends in a small town romance.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I didn’t have to work, I would have finished this book in one sitting! I could not put it down! This is such a sweet story of childhood friends that reconnect as adults after life happens and leads them both back to their small home town. I laughed a lot, cried a little, and felt all the feelings! And can we talk about how pretty that cover is?! 5 stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Stefanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intriguing

I was not sure of the concept of this book but it intrigued me. D and Ally become friends when they start emailing back and forth. I liked how they would ask each other questions. Later in the book when D gets out I love how much Gary welcomed him home. It warmed my heart. Grandma was pretty fun too.

[Grisel Arteaga · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! From the first page to the last I was hooked! Ally and Drew are everything! I laughed, cried and felt everything! I loved the small town story! You will love this book!

[Kayleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how I laughed out loud with Ally, teared up with Ally, got furious at and heartbroken for Drew!

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable friends to lovers slow burn. Loved the story. Told in dual POV 1st person. Low on the steam but open door spice.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: An ARC was provided by the author.

Okay, quick confession: I have a "bad" habit of trying to figure out a story based on the blurb alone or within the first couple of chapters. It may take the "fun" out of reading, but yeah, that's just a personal quirk of mine, and in the case of Ally and Drew's story, it was pretty easy to figure out where their story would lead to, thanks to the blurb and a couple of tidbits in the first chapter. Now, as much as I was a happy camper because my hypothesis was proven to be right, the excitement and enjoyment weren't diminished one little bit while I was reading the book. Nope, Andrea Johnston's storytelling simply wouldn't allow such a thing, and if you're familiar with her writing, you'll know what I mean. She's written a beautiful and touching love story about two people who felt a great deal of loss when they were no longer in each other's lives as children, only to be gifted with the opportunity to find one another more than a dozen years later. I loved seeing these two not just re-discover their platonic connection but to delve into more romantic and passionate thoughts and emotions. Aside from the romance aspect, my heart appreciated the reminders that home is not always a location and that family doesn't necessarily mean the one you are born into. It Was Always You is a recommended read, and one I'm easily giving five stars to. ♥

[Misty · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Andrea Johnston is my go to for small town romances. She has definitely found her niche in the romance world with her books.

I have to be honest, I wasn't completely sure I would like this one while reading the blurb but it was a fun, easy read and I blew right through it. I loved that Ally and Drew were childhood friends and found their way back to each other. Ally was fun to read since she was so laid back and exactly how I picture myself when working from home. I felt a kinship with her in that regard, although her job might be a little more fun than mine. Her parents made me laugh and I'm wondering how I can adopt a granny just like hers.

Drew is the character I think I loved the most. There were times I wish he would have come out with his secret and I wanted to shout at him but the other part of me got it. I knew the exact moment when his cover would be blown and I think I held my breath a little when trying to figure out what kind of fallout there would be. But in true Johnston fashion the angst and wait didn't last long and once again we get that HEA that leaves us all smiling.

This is a great weekend read if you're just looking for an escape from every day life.

[Kayla Busch · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK IS LITERALLY EVERYTHING!!!!! I can't even begin to describe how much I loved this book. I literally read it from start to finish in one sitting because I could not put it down. It has everything I love in a book. Small town setting, an epic friends to lovers story with a twist you won't see coming and memorable characters that you won't be able to forget. Ally and Drew were childhood friends but circumstances had them parting ways when they were younger, but they never forgot one another. Now, years later they are both back in their small towns and reconnect in a unique way. Ally and Drew's journey to love will have your heart soaring and will give you all the feels. I laughed, cried and swooned throughout this book. Do yourself a favour and pick up this charming small town read today!!!!

[Elita · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was always you.

Given this ARC for an honest review, going to keep this review simple and quick so you can get to reading the book.
I read this book in under 36hours I could not put it down, I loved everything about it.
Ally and Drew’s story just seemed to speak to me I love how they reconnected both in emails and real life by doing what they did as kids.....and remembering what it is like to be young and I think we all need to remember that every now and again.
The story is written well and just flows, chapter are short and quick(love short chapters makes reading so much enjoyable) so the the book moves well and is easy to pick up and put down without losing your place.
Do yourself a favour and one click this book, will be so worth your time.
5 stars.

[•Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read Ms.Johnston's work before and reading that synopsis, I've been so excited for this book! Once I started reading I couldn't stop! I fell so head over heels in love with this story and it's characters! I laughed and smiled too many times to count.

From their friendship to everything in-between, I connected with Ally and Drew so much. Their story was every bit unique and was filled with so much heart and humor. I adored the secondary characters as well and what they brought to the story.

Ms.Johnston created such a refreshing and day brightening read! This is my new favorite book of hers! It left me hugging my kindle with the biggest smile on my face. ♥️




*I volunteered to read and review a Copy of this book from the author*

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Andrea Johnston delivers a fresh and intriguing trope. I will admit the premise of this story had me intrigued. The story of Ally and Drew finding each other after many years apart was such a fun read. I wish I had Ally's grandmother as my own because she had me giggle snorting my way through the book. I reached the end and was trying to continue to swipe left to turn the page and get more. I loved this story and I hope in the future she revisits this couple to further their story. I highly recommend this book! 5 stars was really not enough to rate this awesome book.

[Kathryn Linke · Rating 4 out of 5]

It Was Always You is a fast paced, unique small town romance, with Andrea Johnston's signature dose of heat, heart and humor.

Ally is a quirky, fun and kind character, who is also a bit of an introvert despite the fact she seems to be quite outgoing.

Drew is such a resilient character you can't help but adore him. He's made some dubious choices in his past but fully owns up to his mistakes and is determined to look to the future.

The connection and chemistry between this pair of childhood friends is undeniable.

If you love a fun, fast paced, friends to lovers romance you won't want to miss It Was Always You.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not a big reality tv watcher, so I haven't seen the show this is loosely based off Life After Lockup.
There hasn't been a book Andrea released that I didn't love from the beginning, I would of had this done sooner if adulting didn't come in the way at times. I love Andrea's small town voice, I come from a small town myself and she does amazing work with her stories.
When I started I couldn't put it down, I wanted to know more about Ally and Drew, they were wonderful characters. It was a fun emotional, laugh out loud kinda read.

[Kathy Schofield · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrea Johnston does small town romance so well, and this new book is a perfect small town romance.
Love how it is written in dual point of view
Love Granny - she is bloody hysterical, and really has the best lines.
Ally and I could be besties in real life - "When liquid gold rises precariously close to the rim, I have no choice but to bring the bottle to my lips and finish it off" She is my soul-mate!!
Perfect book for reading on the beach, in the bath or tucked up in front of a fire on a Sunday arvo.
Just makes you feel - squee !!

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am thankful for this book, I hadn’t read in quite a while and this book definitely wants me to read more. The secret that kept going on in the story made this slow burn, small town feel give me all the emotions in one. I have a new way to celebrate my birthday from now on and I think everyone else will feel that way after reading this. Ally is someone I know I would get along with and be best of friends with, Didi included. Drew is almost like a bad boy who turns back to his small home town for a new life, boy does he get it!

[LLS · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another solid offering from this author! Drew and Ally were childhood best friends when one day Drew disappeared without any word. Drew had a less than desirable family life and rebelled as a teen/ young adult. His rebellion lead him to spend time behind bars. While this is a love story between Drew and Ally, this book I so much more. It's about love, self-worth, and finding family wherever you can!

Thank you so much for the privilege of reading this book! Well done ❤️

[AmyLynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a childhood best friends to lovers book, and I was hooked from the first page. It will have you laughing and crying and just plain swooning. It has all the feels and a hot as hell hero with a small town vibe. Add in Granny and Myson and you can't resist. I loved all the sweet moments with Ally and Drew. Their connection was so amazingly beautiful. I can't wait for the next read from Andrea.

[Erica | · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a cute, fun, and achingly sweet read. After a rough couple of weeks this was exactly what my tired, stressed-out brain needed!

✔Small Town
✔Endearing Hero
✔Quirky, spunky, sometimes annoying Heroine
✔Sass
✔Fun Supporting Characters
✔Mischief-making Feline
✔Friends to lovers
✔Slow Burn

If you are looking for a heartfelt, light, engaging read, then give Drew and Ally a go! I'll be adding this one to my reread list!

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it when authors gives a story for the good people and people that do deserve their happily ever after. Ally and Drew have such a strong beautiful love bond and their honesty is spot on.
Drew has a secret to tell Ally and to see how it unfolds breaks your heart. BUT their connection is so much stronger; they just have to prove it.

Here is more of my review on YouTube- https://youtu.be/pwhUzkBSH4c