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Chikalu Falls #2
Keeping You
I never should have slept with Colin McCoy.
When I moved to my sister’s small town, I was looking for a fresh start—no more shallow relationships, no snotty fake friends, and definitely no charming, dirty-talking musicians.
We had a fun, red-hot night together and we agreed that hooking up was a mistake, a one-time thing. But when my dream bakery location happens to be right next door to his bar, every day I’m forced to see that chiseled jawline and remember the feel of his incredible body on mine.
No. I’m starting over. I have rules. No more bad habits, definitely no falling in love. No matter how hard he tries, hooking up with him again would prove I’m the flake everyone expects me to be.
But here I am, stuck between wanting to make something of my life and wanting to grab him and make another delicious mistake.
When I moved to my sister’s small town, I was looking for a fresh start—no more shallow relationships, no snotty fake friends, and definitely no charming, dirty-talking musicians.
We had a fun, red-hot night together and we agreed that hooking up was a mistake, a one-time thing. But when my dream bakery location happens to be right next door to his bar, every day I’m forced to see that chiseled jawline and remember the feel of his incredible body on mine.
No. I’m starting over. I have rules. No more bad habits, definitely no falling in love. No matter how hard he tries, hooking up with him again would prove I’m the flake everyone expects me to be.
But here I am, stuck between wanting to make something of my life and wanting to grab him and make another delicious mistake.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2021
1800 people are currently reading
4169 people want to read
About the author
Lena Hendrix
33 books3,613 followersLena Hendrix is a USA Today and Amazon Top 5 bestselling contemporary romance author living in the Midwest. Her love for romance started with sneaking racy Harlequin paperbacks as a teenager and now she writes her own hot-as-sin small town romance novels. Lena has a soft spot for strong alphas with marshmallow insides, heroines who clap back, and sizzling tension. Her novels pack in small town heart with a whole lotta heat.
When she's not writing or devouring new novels, you can find her hiking, camping, fishing, and sipping a spicy margarita!
Want to hang out? Find Lena on FB, Tiktok or IG!
When she's not writing or devouring new novels, you can find her hiking, camping, fishing, and sipping a spicy margarita!
Want to hang out? Find Lena on FB, Tiktok or IG!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 301 reviews
September 11, 2021
I received this ARC in return for an honest review, all thoughts are my own.
If you know me, you know I love a small town romance, and this book did not disappoint. Chikalu Falls sounds like a dream place to call home, the community are just so welcoming and loyal and somewhere I would love to walk down the main street of. (Preferably with one of Honeys sweet treats in my hand)
Colin and Honey were just the perfect couple, they had an amazing chemistry and an off the charts steamy sex life. They just have so much going for them, if they can just get their sh*t sorted haha.
Great storyline, great characters with the perfect amount of steam.
Great 2nd book in this series, looking forward to book 3 ❤️
If you know me, you know I love a small town romance, and this book did not disappoint. Chikalu Falls sounds like a dream place to call home, the community are just so welcoming and loyal and somewhere I would love to walk down the main street of. (Preferably with one of Honeys sweet treats in my hand)
Colin and Honey were just the perfect couple, they had an amazing chemistry and an off the charts steamy sex life. They just have so much going for them, if they can just get their sh*t sorted haha.
Great storyline, great characters with the perfect amount of steam.
Great 2nd book in this series, looking forward to book 3 ❤️
January 23, 2022
Another incredibly sweet and unputdownable book in the Chikalu Falls series! Honey has quit her corporate job and moves to Chikalu Falls to reevaluate her life. Her sister, Jo from the first book, now lives here and couldn’t be happier, so Honey decides to open her own bakery. The bar owner next door is incredibly handsome and they have undeniable chemistry, but Honey is trying to avoid falling into old traps, where she lets the men in her life define who she is and what she does. But resisting Colin is a lot easier on paper.
This sounds a lot like the myriad of Hallmark movies out there, and plot wise, it really is. The strength of this book truly lies in the writing and the three-dimensional, lovable characters that Hendrix has created.
POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2022: This book fulfills the "A book with a recipe in it" category.
This sounds a lot like the myriad of Hallmark movies out there, and plot wise, it really is. The strength of this book truly lies in the writing and the three-dimensional, lovable characters that Hendrix has created.
POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2022: This book fulfills the "A book with a recipe in it" category.
September 2, 2021
This is my first read by Lena Hendrix and I’m so glad that I found her and read this book. Nothing quite like a Small town romance, swoon worthy romance , and the chemistry between Honey and Colin is off the charts!
I couldn’t wait to start this read and once I did I didn’t want to stop, I stayed up way to late kept telling myself “one more chapter “
Honey gave up a dream growing up to follow a boy, she finds herself in a job she settles for then she notices just how much she lost the person she used to be, after making some life changes she decides it’s time to move and start a new chapter in a new place with a new beginning. She’s always been a no strings attached kind of girl and had that with Colin only one night is never enough. She had this magnetic pull towards him no matter how much she didn’t want that.
Colin the swoon worthy, good looking, country singing and bar owner who happens to live in the small town Honey moves to. Colin his so attracted to Honey and wants to have her for more than just one night. He is just the sweetest ever and definitely a book boyfriend.
This book had me hooked lines and sunk from the very beginning I devoured it. I loved Honey and Colin their antics, sweet romantic moments and the steam. All the secondary characters to this sweet little town are so adorable, I really enjoyed them. And I cannot wait for more of this series.
I highly recommend this read.
I couldn’t wait to start this read and once I did I didn’t want to stop, I stayed up way to late kept telling myself “one more chapter “
Honey gave up a dream growing up to follow a boy, she finds herself in a job she settles for then she notices just how much she lost the person she used to be, after making some life changes she decides it’s time to move and start a new chapter in a new place with a new beginning. She’s always been a no strings attached kind of girl and had that with Colin only one night is never enough. She had this magnetic pull towards him no matter how much she didn’t want that.
Colin the swoon worthy, good looking, country singing and bar owner who happens to live in the small town Honey moves to. Colin his so attracted to Honey and wants to have her for more than just one night. He is just the sweetest ever and definitely a book boyfriend.
This book had me hooked lines and sunk from the very beginning I devoured it. I loved Honey and Colin their antics, sweet romantic moments and the steam. All the secondary characters to this sweet little town are so adorable, I really enjoyed them. And I cannot wait for more of this series.
I highly recommend this read.
August 21, 2024
This is literally the worst book I’ve ever read 😂
September 14, 2021
After unexpectedly quitting her job, Honey James is in desperate need of a fresh start to rediscover who she is & what she wants, so Honey moves to her sister’s small town, Chikalu Falls. The last time Honey visited her sister, she hooked up with hot bachelor & bar owner, Colin McCoy and with Honey’s return, it’s clear the chemistry hasn’t been lost between them.
Honey’s always been an avid baker and now that she needs a new career, she decides to take a leap & open her own bakery. And Honey just so happens to rent the business-space right next door to Colin’s bar. But what she doesn’t know is Colin has his sights set on owning that side of the building in order to expand his bar, which could put a wrench in Honey’s dreams down the road.
While Honey thought their steamy night together was a one-off, Colin is determined to show Honey just how great they’d be together. And Honey finds Colin to be completely irresistible & before long, he’s won her heart. But with his secret looming over his head, Colin could lose the one person who finally puts the sparkle back in his eye.
Keeping You by Lena Hendrix is book 2 in the Chikalu Falls series. While I enjoyed Lena’s debut book, her second release exhibits so much growth. Colin & Honey’s connection felt so organic and I liked the overall setup of their romance. This does have mention of suicide (someone from the past committed suicide), as a heads up. I felt for Colin and his emotional past and I loved seeing Honey help heal him. And Honey quickly found herself tangled up in Colin and the town of Chikalu Falls. Definitely recommend this small town romance! 4.5/5 stars.
Honey’s always been an avid baker and now that she needs a new career, she decides to take a leap & open her own bakery. And Honey just so happens to rent the business-space right next door to Colin’s bar. But what she doesn’t know is Colin has his sights set on owning that side of the building in order to expand his bar, which could put a wrench in Honey’s dreams down the road.
While Honey thought their steamy night together was a one-off, Colin is determined to show Honey just how great they’d be together. And Honey finds Colin to be completely irresistible & before long, he’s won her heart. But with his secret looming over his head, Colin could lose the one person who finally puts the sparkle back in his eye.
Keeping You by Lena Hendrix is book 2 in the Chikalu Falls series. While I enjoyed Lena’s debut book, her second release exhibits so much growth. Colin & Honey’s connection felt so organic and I liked the overall setup of their romance. This does have mention of suicide (someone from the past committed suicide), as a heads up. I felt for Colin and his emotional past and I loved seeing Honey help heal him. And Honey quickly found herself tangled up in Colin and the town of Chikalu Falls. Definitely recommend this small town romance! 4.5/5 stars.
Currently reading
December 16, 2021Writing Keeping You was such a fun, but emotional experience! From the moment she came to life on the page of Finding You, I knew Honey would be a force to be reckoned with. She's a spitfire and I love her no-holds-barred approach to life.
And Colin? Oh, Colin! Who doesn't love a musician who's hot as hell and a total softie on the inside. Dealing with the family issues and the cards he was dealt struck very close to home. I loved being able to write a man who could deal with big emotions. It was even more fun to write a man who could deal with Honey and all her sass! And the scene after Honey storms home? Ooooh...they were on fire! IYKYK!
The town of Chikalu Falls is a character in itself. In Keeping You, you'll also get a peek into the Chikalu Chatter, the town's gossip rag.
Buckle up, you're in for a good time!
And Colin? Oh, Colin! Who doesn't love a musician who's hot as hell and a total softie on the inside. Dealing with the family issues and the cards he was dealt struck very close to home. I loved being able to write a man who could deal with big emotions. It was even more fun to write a man who could deal with Honey and all her sass! And the scene after Honey storms home? Ooooh...they were on fire! IYKYK!
The town of Chikalu Falls is a character in itself. In Keeping You, you'll also get a peek into the Chikalu Chatter, the town's gossip rag.
Buckle up, you're in for a good time!
September 10, 2021
This was a hot swoon worthy story. I loved Honey and Colin together.
Honey just quit her job and she is ready to start all over. So she moves to a small town called Chikalu Falls and bonus its where her sister is. Maybe she might also run into her one night stand, Colin. Colin and Honey had a one night when Honey was visiting her sister a while back and even though they had loads of chemistry they just couldn’t do the long distance. But now that Honey was back maybe she leaves all that in the past and focus on reinventing herself.
Colin owns his own bar and definitely remembers Honey. Thought about her a few times as well. Now that she is back maybe they can pick up where they left off. He so wants to see where this will take them. But is this what’s best for them. Honey is afraid of losing herself in another relationship and Colin doesn’t know if he is worthy of this new feelings or if he deserves to have someone like Honey!!
I haven’t read this author before, but I have to say I enjoyed this story. Both of these characters captured me from the start. It couldn’t have been easy for Honey to pick up her whole life and start all over again. And Colin had some of his own issues to deal with. But also he is so sweet and hot and has some alpha tendencies going on there (Oh yeah, lol) I am excited to read the next one in this series. And I am definitely going back and reading Jo and Lincoln’s story 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
Honey just quit her job and she is ready to start all over. So she moves to a small town called Chikalu Falls and bonus its where her sister is. Maybe she might also run into her one night stand, Colin. Colin and Honey had a one night when Honey was visiting her sister a while back and even though they had loads of chemistry they just couldn’t do the long distance. But now that Honey was back maybe she leaves all that in the past and focus on reinventing herself.
Colin owns his own bar and definitely remembers Honey. Thought about her a few times as well. Now that she is back maybe they can pick up where they left off. He so wants to see where this will take them. But is this what’s best for them. Honey is afraid of losing herself in another relationship and Colin doesn’t know if he is worthy of this new feelings or if he deserves to have someone like Honey!!
I haven’t read this author before, but I have to say I enjoyed this story. Both of these characters captured me from the start. It couldn’t have been easy for Honey to pick up her whole life and start all over again. And Colin had some of his own issues to deal with. But also he is so sweet and hot and has some alpha tendencies going on there (Oh yeah, lol) I am excited to read the next one in this series. And I am definitely going back and reading Jo and Lincoln’s story 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
September 30, 2021
This story pulled on my heartstrings! I always review based on my feelings, and Colin & Honey gave me all the feels.
Honey moves to be closer to her sister (Joanna from the first book) and to start over, she has a list of self commitments and she’s determined to stick to them…until the local bar owner Colin comes into the picture, in a previous visit Honey and Colin connected in a way that has stayed with them both, their heat and chemistry is off the charts but will that be enough.
Honey has vowed to stay away from complications & relationships, and she’s focussed on her new business, however, living in a small town makes it hard to keep her distance from Colin.
I adored their journey to HEA, it wasn’t an easy one, and Colin has a heartbreaking past, but their story was beautiful, I also loved catching up with characters from book 1, I feel you could read this as a stand-alone however it’ll be more enjoyable to read as a series.
Honey moves to be closer to her sister (Joanna from the first book) and to start over, she has a list of self commitments and she’s determined to stick to them…until the local bar owner Colin comes into the picture, in a previous visit Honey and Colin connected in a way that has stayed with them both, their heat and chemistry is off the charts but will that be enough.
Honey has vowed to stay away from complications & relationships, and she’s focussed on her new business, however, living in a small town makes it hard to keep her distance from Colin.
I adored their journey to HEA, it wasn’t an easy one, and Colin has a heartbreaking past, but their story was beautiful, I also loved catching up with characters from book 1, I feel you could read this as a stand-alone however it’ll be more enjoyable to read as a series.
November 20, 2025
Well wasn’t this just cute.
Honey & Colin 💕
Joanna’s sister
Colin is Lincoln’s friend
He’s the bar owner and hot guitar singing man
She’s the new in town, new bakery owner
She’s starting over in the small town
And he’s completely smitten with her
If you want a man that knows he wants a woman, Colin is for you.
This was simple, I mean there’s an inkling of drama, but it was fast paced and sweet.
Honey & Colin 💕
Joanna’s sister
Colin is Lincoln’s friend
He’s the bar owner and hot guitar singing man
She’s the new in town, new bakery owner
She’s starting over in the small town
And he’s completely smitten with her
If you want a man that knows he wants a woman, Colin is for you.
This was simple, I mean there’s an inkling of drama, but it was fast paced and sweet.
January 23, 2025
4.5 Star review of Keeping You (Chikalu Falls #2) by Lena Hendrix
Lena Hendrix is a relatively new author to me but what I have read I have enjoyed. I was hooked on Keeping You from the first chapter. The writing was descriptive and I could easily imagine Chikalu Falls, Montana.
This is a second chance at love story for Colin and Honey after they had a one night stand that both agreed should not happen again. However, fate often works in mysterious ways and when the perfect location becomes available for Honey’s new bakery, it happens to be right next door to Colin’s bar.
Colin realizes that Honey is the one who got away and so sets out to prove to her that they have something that could be special. The chemistry between them sizzles and you could feel the heat as you were reading.
It was also great t catch up on some familiar faces and I particularly enjoyed the relationship that Honey and her sister Jo share. This is a heartwarming story that left me with a smile on my face.
Lena Hendrix is a relatively new author to me but what I have read I have enjoyed. I was hooked on Keeping You from the first chapter. The writing was descriptive and I could easily imagine Chikalu Falls, Montana.
This is a second chance at love story for Colin and Honey after they had a one night stand that both agreed should not happen again. However, fate often works in mysterious ways and when the perfect location becomes available for Honey’s new bakery, it happens to be right next door to Colin’s bar.
Colin realizes that Honey is the one who got away and so sets out to prove to her that they have something that could be special. The chemistry between them sizzles and you could feel the heat as you were reading.
It was also great t catch up on some familiar faces and I particularly enjoyed the relationship that Honey and her sister Jo share. This is a heartwarming story that left me with a smile on my face.
June 13, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
Ahhh I just loved Honey and Colin! There story was a whirlwind romance that will capture your entire heart. I could not get enough of it.
Honey is the sweetest with big dreams. She went after them with everything she had. Watching her grow and get her business ready was so fun. Colin is such an inner romantic. It was adorable how hard he worked to get Honey to agree to a date with him.
Honey and Colin both had a bunch of things to work through in their personal lives. Colin finally accepted the happiness he so rightfully deserved after going through so much pain.
The spice was of course hot and delicious. We love a frosting scene. 😉
Love loved the epilogue! It was sweet, fun, and sinful.
Read if you like
🍻 Broken Rules
🍻 Dirty Talking Musician
🍻 Small Town
Ahhh I just loved Honey and Colin! There story was a whirlwind romance that will capture your entire heart. I could not get enough of it.
Honey is the sweetest with big dreams. She went after them with everything she had. Watching her grow and get her business ready was so fun. Colin is such an inner romantic. It was adorable how hard he worked to get Honey to agree to a date with him.
Honey and Colin both had a bunch of things to work through in their personal lives. Colin finally accepted the happiness he so rightfully deserved after going through so much pain.
The spice was of course hot and delicious. We love a frosting scene. 😉
Love loved the epilogue! It was sweet, fun, and sinful.
Read if you like
🍻 Broken Rules
🍻 Dirty Talking Musician
🍻 Small Town
September 12, 2021
This small town romance melted my heart. I adored Honey right from the start. She was sassy, confident, and caring and just looking for her place in the world. Colin was a bartender with the voice of a angel trying to make up for past mistakes. Together these two were perfect. I loved how smitten they were with each other. The only thing that I didn’t like about these two was the lack of communication! I know there had to be some angst but I got so frustrated, although I will admit I love how it was solved. Only in a small town could this have happened. Speaking of, the Chikalu Chatter column was a great edition to the story! It was nice to be able to see what the townspeople were thinking about Honey and Colin. This was my first read from Lena Hendrix, but it certainly won’t be my last! I’m looking forward to going back and reading the first book in the series.
*Thank you to the author and Social Butterfly PR for my ARC copy of Keeping You. All opinions are my own.*
*Thank you to the author and Social Butterfly PR for my ARC copy of Keeping You. All opinions are my own.*
April 15, 2024
After a year I finished this book! It didn't take that long because I didn't like the book but more because of the heartbreak I feared to face. Spoiler: there wasn't!!! or at least not one I should've been scared of, LOL.
Since it took me that long, I cannot make an adequate review T.T.
But, what I can say, is that I loved the story between Colin and Honey, and how she did not follow her original plan, iykyk (book reference, folks).
Plus, these books make me want to go to a small town and find me a cowboy who writes me songs and buys me a place where to build my cat-book-café o(〃＾▽＾〃)o
Not gonna read the next book tho, not my cup of tea🍵
Since it took me that long, I cannot make an adequate review T.T.
But, what I can say, is that I loved the story between Colin and Honey, and how she did not follow her original plan, iykyk (book reference, folks).
Plus, these books make me want to go to a small town and find me a cowboy who writes me songs and buys me a place where to build my cat-book-café o(〃＾▽＾〃)o
Not gonna read the next book tho, not my cup of tea🍵
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2023
5⭐️
small town romance.
brother in law‘s best friend.
past hook up.
he falls first.
he owns the local bar.
she moved to town to be closer to her sister.
she rents the building next to the bar and turns it into a bakery.
she is on a men ban.
he makes that very hard for her.
Colin was absolute perfection. No other words left. The things that came out if this man‘s mouth. I just want to be courted by someone now. Like can someone bring me coffee and flowers every day?
small town romance.
brother in law‘s best friend.
past hook up.
he falls first.
he owns the local bar.
she moved to town to be closer to her sister.
she rents the building next to the bar and turns it into a bakery.
she is on a men ban.
he makes that very hard for her.
Colin was absolute perfection. No other words left. The things that came out if this man‘s mouth. I just want to be courted by someone now. Like can someone bring me coffee and flowers every day?
December 5, 2024
3.25⭐️
Another cute read! It's also insta-lust/love and I think I'm starting to like this trope or it was just written well here. I only wished that Colin grovelled some more because he was doing so well wooing her from the start.
The small articles in between a few chapters are entertaining too. Although I wish we know who wrote them or that Honey interacted with them.
I also wish we get to see Honey doing business-y things. It was barely mentioned and it feels like her being a baker is just that. It's like she weren't stressed with all the business-y side. And I'm not sure if I missed this part but it looks like she's doing everything alone and doesn't have any staff to help her out. I mean, I used to bake too and although I don't own a bakery, baking one simple recipe alone takes a lot of time and energy. At least we do see Colin bartending and actually managing his business.
I also found it weird that they never talked about her kind of meeting Colin's ex and acknowledging that Nate's ex is hurting too. They were brushed aside and was hoping it will be brought up again before they got engaged or back together.
Anyway, I still enjoyed reading this!
Another cute read! It's also insta-lust/love and I think I'm starting to like this trope or it was just written well here. I only wished that Colin grovelled some more because he was doing so well wooing her from the start.
The small articles in between a few chapters are entertaining too. Although I wish we know who wrote them or that Honey interacted with them.
I also wish we get to see Honey doing business-y things. It was barely mentioned and it feels like her being a baker is just that. It's like she weren't stressed with all the business-y side. And I'm not sure if I missed this part but it looks like she's doing everything alone and doesn't have any staff to help her out. I mean, I used to bake too and although I don't own a bakery, baking one simple recipe alone takes a lot of time and energy. At least we do see Colin bartending and actually managing his business.
I also found it weird that they never talked about her kind of meeting Colin's ex and acknowledging that Nate's ex is hurting too. They were brushed aside and was hoping it will be brought up again before they got engaged or back together.
Anyway, I still enjoyed reading this!
November 28, 2021
#smalltown
This is book two in the interconnected Chikalu Falls series but it can be read as a standalone. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
I loved that Honey is outgoing and pursuing her new dream. She is starting over again and determined to succeed. Colin is a dream with the voice to melt panties and a heart full of survivor's guilt. I really appreciated how his guilt was handled within the story. I love how hard and fast he falls for Honey and they way he woos her. They have both had times requiring fresh starts and that builds an understanding between them. These two are not the best at communications and much grief could have been avoided with a little direct discussion. At times, this was frustrating. I loved the heat between them. They have banter, sass, and the friendships. The small town is adorable and I love the Chikalu Chatter. This was an enjoyable read and an excellent addition to the Chikalu Falls series.
This is book two in the interconnected Chikalu Falls series but it can be read as a standalone. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
I loved that Honey is outgoing and pursuing her new dream. She is starting over again and determined to succeed. Colin is a dream with the voice to melt panties and a heart full of survivor's guilt. I really appreciated how his guilt was handled within the story. I love how hard and fast he falls for Honey and they way he woos her. They have both had times requiring fresh starts and that builds an understanding between them. These two are not the best at communications and much grief could have been avoided with a little direct discussion. At times, this was frustrating. I loved the heat between them. They have banter, sass, and the friendships. The small town is adorable and I love the Chikalu Chatter. This was an enjoyable read and an excellent addition to the Chikalu Falls series.
August 31, 2021
Colin and Honey meet when she was visiting her sister in the small town where she lives. After quitting her job in the city she decided that she needed a change of scenery and moved to be closer to her sister as well. She didn’t want to date anyone, she wanted to be able to figure her life out and be able to be on her own two feet again. Honey was the one that got away for Colin. It took them both a while to figure things out, but they end up with a happy ending together.
September 9, 2021
This is the second book from Lena that I have read and I loved it! It set in Chikalu falls again with Jo’s sister Honey and the owner of the local bar Colin! This is a small town romance and you really get the feel of the small town with the mix of characters. I loved the Chikalu Chatter chapters, the local news (gossip!) reels thrown in every few chapters!
A great second book, and I am looking forward to the next book, Protecting You!
A great second book, and I am looking forward to the next book, Protecting You!
September 11, 2021
I loved the first book in this series and was very excited for this second book. And I am here to tell you, I was not disappointed. I loved it!
This is such a fantastic read, and is so well written! Colin and Honey are amazing characters and the storyline is too good to be put down! I loved the emotion, the wit, the steam, and the sexual tension and chemistry are off the charts!
I absolutely recommend this book and will be excitedly awaiting more from this incredible author!
This is such a fantastic read, and is so well written! Colin and Honey are amazing characters and the storyline is too good to be put down! I loved the emotion, the wit, the steam, and the sexual tension and chemistry are off the charts!
I absolutely recommend this book and will be excitedly awaiting more from this incredible author!
April 10, 2022
Keeping You (Chikalu Falls, #2) by Lena Hendrix (2022/04/02)
Rating 3/5 Stars
Disclaimer: Thank you to Lena Hendrix for providing me with an e-ARC to review, All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Keeping You is the second book in the Chikalu Falls series and can be read as a standalone. However, I recommend reading this series in order for maximum enjoyment. Check this one out if you like. . .
Small Town
Baker Heroine
Bar Owner Hero
Music
Found Family
This story follows Honey James who has just recently quitted her job. As a result, she chose to relocate to a small-town where her sister resides. Honey had a one-night encounter with Colin McCoy, the small town's bar owner, the previous time she visited her sister.
Colin McCoy is attempting to establish himself. With his failed music career and the success of his bar, he now believes he is getting back on track and deserving of his family. When Honey comes to town, though, everything changes.
Honey's always loved to bake, and when the opportunity to create her own bakery presents itself, it's just what she's been looking for. Honey and Colin keep bumping into one other now that Honey is renting the place right next door to Colin, and it's evident that they have some unfinished business.
Colin is determined to establish a relationship with Honey and believes that they should pursue their chemistry. However, when Colin's secrets are uncovered and Honey learns about them, he is unsure if she will stay or whether he would lose her forever.
This was an enjoyable novel to read. The hero and heroine's chemistry seemed compelling to me. I liked how the hero was subtle about pursuing the heroine without her noticing. Every few chapters, there was a small town news article on their relationships, which I found entertaining.
Since I'm a sucker for foodie romances, I appreciated that the heroine was a baker. Despite the fact that I gave it the same rating as the previous book, I believe I loved this one better. I definitely got a better sense of this author's writing style after reading this. It also had a few emotional scenes that were fascinating to read about.
Although I preferred this one over the previous, I wasn't enamored with romance. The novel was interesting, but I wasn't as invested in the characters as I wanted to be.
In general, I enjoyed this story. I'm interested in learning more about the characters in the third book, so I'll be picking it up. Thank you again to Lena Hendrix for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review,
TW: Loss of a loved one, Suicide
Rating 3/5 Stars
Disclaimer: Thank you to Lena Hendrix for providing me with an e-ARC to review, All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Keeping You is the second book in the Chikalu Falls series and can be read as a standalone. However, I recommend reading this series in order for maximum enjoyment. Check this one out if you like. . .
Small Town
Baker Heroine
Bar Owner Hero
Music
Found Family
This story follows Honey James who has just recently quitted her job. As a result, she chose to relocate to a small-town where her sister resides. Honey had a one-night encounter with Colin McCoy, the small town's bar owner, the previous time she visited her sister.
Colin McCoy is attempting to establish himself. With his failed music career and the success of his bar, he now believes he is getting back on track and deserving of his family. When Honey comes to town, though, everything changes.
Honey's always loved to bake, and when the opportunity to create her own bakery presents itself, it's just what she's been looking for. Honey and Colin keep bumping into one other now that Honey is renting the place right next door to Colin, and it's evident that they have some unfinished business.
Colin is determined to establish a relationship with Honey and believes that they should pursue their chemistry. However, when Colin's secrets are uncovered and Honey learns about them, he is unsure if she will stay or whether he would lose her forever.
This was an enjoyable novel to read. The hero and heroine's chemistry seemed compelling to me. I liked how the hero was subtle about pursuing the heroine without her noticing. Every few chapters, there was a small town news article on their relationships, which I found entertaining.
Since I'm a sucker for foodie romances, I appreciated that the heroine was a baker. Despite the fact that I gave it the same rating as the previous book, I believe I loved this one better. I definitely got a better sense of this author's writing style after reading this. It also had a few emotional scenes that were fascinating to read about.
Although I preferred this one over the previous, I wasn't enamored with romance. The novel was interesting, but I wasn't as invested in the characters as I wanted to be.
In general, I enjoyed this story. I'm interested in learning more about the characters in the third book, so I'll be picking it up. Thank you again to Lena Hendrix for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review,
TW: Loss of a loved one, Suicide
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2022
A woman moves to the small town where her sister lives and decides to open a bakery right beside the business of the man who was her unforgettable one night stand. **
Honey loves many things about the city life, but when she realizes her job is soul sucking she impulsively decides to move to the small town that holds pleasant memories from summers spent there growing up and where her sister recently started making roots. While there she decides to go outside her comfort zone and follow her dream of owning her own bakery. Unfortunately, the business next door is a bar owned by Colin McCoy, the man she can't seem to forget from their shared night a few months prior.
Colin has a successful business that he started after walking away from a music career in an effort to be there for his family following the loss of his brother. His bar has done so well that he makes plans to buy the business next door in order to expand. What he doesn't realize is that the owner has given a short term lease to Honey, the woman of his dreams.
The chemistry and shared attraction between the two is kept at a distance by Honey in an effort to not be distracted from her new endeavor to make a new life for herself. Colin tries to honor her wishes but is determined to bide his time until she is ready. Over time they begin a relationship in secret, but Colin longs for them to be more. Personal ghosts from the past and lies of omission threaten their happiness together leaving Honey to wonder if she made the right decision to make a place for herself in this town.
**Important information before starting this book: This story starts off with the knowledge that Colin and Honey share an incredible night together several months prior. If you want to read that scene the author has gifted the reader with that bonus scene, no spoilers. I recommend reading it before starting this book and it can be found on the last page if you sign up for the authors email.
I always enjoy a story where the Male Protagonist knows he wants the girl early on in the story and is willing to do whatever he needs to win her. Colin is a fun guy who adores Honey before they had their one night stand. Honey is slightly confusing with her stubborn need to be independent and also impulsively falling hard for Colin and having no idea how to do either. Good HEA and epilogue. I appreciated the bonus scene.
Bonus: Jo and Lincoln from book one are present as secondary characters. Great set up for book 3 as well.
Honey loves many things about the city life, but when she realizes her job is soul sucking she impulsively decides to move to the small town that holds pleasant memories from summers spent there growing up and where her sister recently started making roots. While there she decides to go outside her comfort zone and follow her dream of owning her own bakery. Unfortunately, the business next door is a bar owned by Colin McCoy, the man she can't seem to forget from their shared night a few months prior.
Colin has a successful business that he started after walking away from a music career in an effort to be there for his family following the loss of his brother. His bar has done so well that he makes plans to buy the business next door in order to expand. What he doesn't realize is that the owner has given a short term lease to Honey, the woman of his dreams.
The chemistry and shared attraction between the two is kept at a distance by Honey in an effort to not be distracted from her new endeavor to make a new life for herself. Colin tries to honor her wishes but is determined to bide his time until she is ready. Over time they begin a relationship in secret, but Colin longs for them to be more. Personal ghosts from the past and lies of omission threaten their happiness together leaving Honey to wonder if she made the right decision to make a place for herself in this town.
**Important information before starting this book: This story starts off with the knowledge that Colin and Honey share an incredible night together several months prior. If you want to read that scene the author has gifted the reader with that bonus scene, no spoilers. I recommend reading it before starting this book and it can be found on the last page if you sign up for the authors email.
I always enjoy a story where the Male Protagonist knows he wants the girl early on in the story and is willing to do whatever he needs to win her. Colin is a fun guy who adores Honey before they had their one night stand. Honey is slightly confusing with her stubborn need to be independent and also impulsively falling hard for Colin and having no idea how to do either. Good HEA and epilogue. I appreciated the bonus scene.
Bonus: Jo and Lincoln from book one are present as secondary characters. Great set up for book 3 as well.
September 10, 2021
Amazon / Amazon Worldwide
Honey has come to town to start over. She needs to do something with her life and that means no men, no dating, and definitely no Colin, the man she's trying to avoid but can't seem to successfully stay away from. Can she and Colin actually make it work? Even in the face of what could be the one obstacle that's unforgivable?
I loved Honey and Colin together, even at their non-communicative worst. Though their back and forth was frustrating, they were entertaining and their chemistry was smokin'. Poor Colin had been carrying around so much guilt, so many demons, it just made me want to hug him, even as I wanted to smack him for his dumb male behavior. Honey was perfect for him with her sassy spirit that put him in his place, and he loved it. Altogether, a 4 star story.
ARC via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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June 2, 2023
First off, I am SO glad that Honey got her own book! I loved her so much, and I could feel the chemistry between her and Collin in Finding You (book one). Honey is such a relatable character for me right now. I also decided that I was tired of my old life and I up and moved also. There were a lot of feelings and emotions that I had while reading this, because I know exactly how it feels to need a fresh start and want to go out and do something on your own. I love how Honey did not take any BS from anyone. She knows what she wants to do, and she goes after it! I was so proud of her, especially when her parents were not supportive of her leaving it all behind and thinking that she was making a mistake. I also loved being able to see her find new, real friendships. that one specifically hit home for me as I am trying to make new friends in my own new city. I love how protective Collin was of her, and how much he genuinely cared for her. the ending had me WHEEPING. i loved them so freaking much- and the epilogue had me in a puddle.
four and half stars / three chili peppers
tropes:
- one night stand
- small town
- forced proximity
- emotional AF
four and half stars / three chili peppers
tropes:
- one night stand
- small town
- forced proximity
- emotional AF
November 20, 2025
Can I Keep You?
I can’t believe this is Lena’s first series, the emotional depths she has given the characters, along with the depth of the story itself are equal to a veteran storyteller, and not someone at the beginning of her writing career. The way she writes is simply addictive to me, once I start I just can’t seem to stop.
In this second book, we get to watch Colin and Honey fall. It’s fast and hot, but it’s also beautifully vulnerable, and emotionally compelling. Watching them grow together and realize how much they are meant to be is why I read romance, and the way Lena writes it, well that’s just magic.
I love this small town, with its charm and quirky residents, Chikalu Falls feels like a place I would definitely like to visit, even if it’s only through Lena’s imagination. This series is great, does it have to be read in order? Well no, but my brain doesn’t work that way, so for me I started with Finding you and I’m working my way through, two down, two to go! And I can’t wait to see what she has in-store for us next!
I can’t believe this is Lena’s first series, the emotional depths she has given the characters, along with the depth of the story itself are equal to a veteran storyteller, and not someone at the beginning of her writing career. The way she writes is simply addictive to me, once I start I just can’t seem to stop.
In this second book, we get to watch Colin and Honey fall. It’s fast and hot, but it’s also beautifully vulnerable, and emotionally compelling. Watching them grow together and realize how much they are meant to be is why I read romance, and the way Lena writes it, well that’s just magic.
I love this small town, with its charm and quirky residents, Chikalu Falls feels like a place I would definitely like to visit, even if it’s only through Lena’s imagination. This series is great, does it have to be read in order? Well no, but my brain doesn’t work that way, so for me I started with Finding you and I’m working my way through, two down, two to go! And I can’t wait to see what she has in-store for us next!
September 22, 2021
I do love a small town romance, and I was definitely not disappointed with this one!
The little town of Chikalu Falls is absolutely charming, and with all the good looking men described it makes me wonder what's in the water there?!!
Honey blew up her city girl life in spectacular fashion, forcing her to reevaluate what she really wants out of life. Going to stay with her sister in the small town of Chikalu for a while is just what she needs.
Colin hasn't been able to forget about Honey since her last visit to her sister... so when he finds she's back in town, and seems to still be attracted to him too, its game on.
Honey is a sassy, headstrong heroine, determined to make it on her own without any help (or hindrance) from anyone else.
Colin is a total alpha-roll hero, incredibly sweet (albeit a little dumb for how he handles somethings), but with a dirty mouth 🥵.
I really enjoyed this book. A solid 4⭐ read, and I would definitely recommend ❤
The little town of Chikalu Falls is absolutely charming, and with all the good looking men described it makes me wonder what's in the water there?!!
Honey blew up her city girl life in spectacular fashion, forcing her to reevaluate what she really wants out of life. Going to stay with her sister in the small town of Chikalu for a while is just what she needs.
Colin hasn't been able to forget about Honey since her last visit to her sister... so when he finds she's back in town, and seems to still be attracted to him too, its game on.
Honey is a sassy, headstrong heroine, determined to make it on her own without any help (or hindrance) from anyone else.
Colin is a total alpha-roll hero, incredibly sweet (albeit a little dumb for how he handles somethings), but with a dirty mouth 🥵.
I really enjoyed this book. A solid 4⭐ read, and I would definitely recommend ❤
August 13, 2022
Cute and romantic...
📚 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲: Small town romance
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: ahoney leaves her high paying job to move to Chikalu Falls and finally follow her dream: opening her own Bakery. But her hot bar owner neighbor, Colin, is complicating her plans for independence.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: Definitely a cute book. Small town romance with great spice levels and a fun dual POV.
It definitely wasn't something I'd rave about. I needed more character development, for sure. I've struggled through the first two books in this series. Lena Hendrix's more recent books have been 5 🌟 reads for me, so this is surprising. I'll keep going to finish this out.
𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
🆓️ on KU
📚 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲: Small town romance
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: ahoney leaves her high paying job to move to Chikalu Falls and finally follow her dream: opening her own Bakery. But her hot bar owner neighbor, Colin, is complicating her plans for independence.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: Definitely a cute book. Small town romance with great spice levels and a fun dual POV.
It definitely wasn't something I'd rave about. I needed more character development, for sure. I've struggled through the first two books in this series. Lena Hendrix's more recent books have been 5 🌟 reads for me, so this is surprising. I'll keep going to finish this out.
𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
🆓️ on KU
August 31, 2021
Oh what a great book! I loved the writing, it was so funny and witty throughout. I absolutely loved the relationship between Honey and her sister Jo, it reminded me so much of my sisters and I.
Colin and Honey were smoking hot together and I really enjoyed reading their story. I will admit the lack of communication between these two drove me crazy, each time they chickened out from having an important conversation I just wanted to scream at them 😂
Can’t wait to see what comes next in Chikalu Falls!
Colin and Honey were smoking hot together and I really enjoyed reading their story. I will admit the lack of communication between these two drove me crazy, each time they chickened out from having an important conversation I just wanted to scream at them 😂
Can’t wait to see what comes next in Chikalu Falls!
September 13, 2023
absolutely loved honey and colin! this was such a fun easy read and i absolutely devored it in one sitting. honey was looking for a fresh start and was determined to stick to her list but slowly colin broke down her walls. i love how he basically tricked her into dating him and let her slowly fall for him while she was finding out what she truly wanted in life. the conflict could have been so easily avoided with some communication but i loved seeing them work through it seperately and then coming together. the ending was just so sweet - cannot wait to start for maggie and cole's story!
February 2, 2024
This was a great second book for this series. I enjoyed this book even more than the first book of the series. I loved Colin and Honey together. Lots of small town vibes in this one which I loved.
Colin was the perfect example of a cinnamon roll hero who falls first. I loved that there was more of the town involved in this book. I loved Colin’s family and friend’s support when he needed them. And Honey was so determined to be independent and strong which made her the best counterpart for Colin!
Lena Hendrix is definitely an author I hope to read more of.
Colin was the perfect example of a cinnamon roll hero who falls first. I loved that there was more of the town involved in this book. I loved Colin’s family and friend’s support when he needed them. And Honey was so determined to be independent and strong which made her the best counterpart for Colin!
Lena Hendrix is definitely an author I hope to read more of.
November 10, 2025
Another cute little romance. There wasn’t anything particularly special about it, but it was sweet and easy to read. I’ll admit, I got a little teary-eyed at a few moments when the grief really came through in the characters. I liked the small-town charm feel of the story. It’s one of those books that doesn’t necessarily blow you away but still not a bad read.
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