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Brookhaven Blues #1
The First Heartbreak
The first heartbreak is the hardest.
We were inseparable once.
Kennedy Stratford.
My small-town girl with big-city dreams.
My beautiful dancer.
My everything.
I ruined our love to give her a chance.
And it broke both of us.
A lot can change in eighteen years.
Yet some things stay the same.
Travis Morello.
A small-town cop with big-time problems.
A loyal protector.
A man who could still be my everything.
I only have to let him in.
But we won't survive a second heartbreak.
We were inseparable once.
Kennedy Stratford.
My small-town girl with big-city dreams.
My beautiful dancer.
My everything.
I ruined our love to give her a chance.
And it broke both of us.
A lot can change in eighteen years.
Yet some things stay the same.
Travis Morello.
A small-town cop with big-time problems.
A loyal protector.
A man who could still be my everything.
I only have to let him in.
But we won't survive a second heartbreak.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2021
24 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Bailey
44 books117 followersAmanda Bailey lives in Virginia in her dream home in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. She enjoys staying home with her two children and husband, watching movies and reality TV, and reading books. She writes what she loves to read--swoon-worthy romance with a little angst thrown in on the side. ★
Looking for something sweet, but steamy to read? Check out the freebie on Amanda's website!
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Amanda loves to hear from her readers!'
Looking for something sweet, but steamy to read? Check out the freebie on Amanda's website!
(Available: Meant for EachOther): https://www.amandabailey.biz/sign-up-...
Follow Amanda at:
★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoramanda...
★ Instagram: @author_amandabailey
★ Website: https://www.amandabailey.biz
★ Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/amand...
Amanda loves to hear from her readers!'
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
October 2, 2021
“The chemistry between us is undeniable, like Rose and Jack’s from Titanic - only I’d make space for Travis on that floating door so he doesn’t die.”
Kennedy has moved back to Brookhaven after living in New York for 18 years and she ends up running into the one person she was trying to avoid, her ex-boyfriend Travis, the only guy she has ever loved. Travis can’t believe it when he sees Kennedy for the first time in years and he can’t wait to talk to her. The only problem is that he broke her heart all those years ago and while he felt that he was doing what was best for her, Kennedy had no idea what had gone wrong between them. The spark and attraction is still there between the two, but can they overcome their past to have a future together?
This was such a sweet and sometimes heart wrenching story that had me crying a few times. All good tears though, I promise! Kennedy is such an amazing female character that I would honestly love to have as a best friend. She is confident, strong, independent, fearless, and she isn’t afraid to go after what she wants. And dear, sweet Travis is the kind of guy that we all wish we could find. He’s protective, kind, loving, and while he has his moments of idiocy (I mean he is human, so it’s expected), he is still fully behind Kennedy in whatever she does and fully supports her. I don’t know about you, but that’s the kind of guy that makes me swoon. Add in the fact that he’s a hot cop with an awesome family (I seriously love his parents) and it just makes him all the more scrumptious.
This is the first book that I’ve read by Amanda Bailey but I’m a sucker for a second chance romance so I decided to give it a try and I’m so glad that I did. It’s a wonderful story that captivates from the beginning and makes you want to keep reading until you get to the end, and even then you want more. I can’t wait for the other books in this series, and in the meantime I’m going to go check out Amanda’s backlog. So if you’ll excuse me now, I have a lot of reading to get to.
“Somehow, no matter what I’d done - right or wrong - this woman still cares for me. She wants me. And we’re even better together now than we were before.”
Kennedy has moved back to Brookhaven after living in New York for 18 years and she ends up running into the one person she was trying to avoid, her ex-boyfriend Travis, the only guy she has ever loved. Travis can’t believe it when he sees Kennedy for the first time in years and he can’t wait to talk to her. The only problem is that he broke her heart all those years ago and while he felt that he was doing what was best for her, Kennedy had no idea what had gone wrong between them. The spark and attraction is still there between the two, but can they overcome their past to have a future together?
This was such a sweet and sometimes heart wrenching story that had me crying a few times. All good tears though, I promise! Kennedy is such an amazing female character that I would honestly love to have as a best friend. She is confident, strong, independent, fearless, and she isn’t afraid to go after what she wants. And dear, sweet Travis is the kind of guy that we all wish we could find. He’s protective, kind, loving, and while he has his moments of idiocy (I mean he is human, so it’s expected), he is still fully behind Kennedy in whatever she does and fully supports her. I don’t know about you, but that’s the kind of guy that makes me swoon. Add in the fact that he’s a hot cop with an awesome family (I seriously love his parents) and it just makes him all the more scrumptious.
This is the first book that I’ve read by Amanda Bailey but I’m a sucker for a second chance romance so I decided to give it a try and I’m so glad that I did. It’s a wonderful story that captivates from the beginning and makes you want to keep reading until you get to the end, and even then you want more. I can’t wait for the other books in this series, and in the meantime I’m going to go check out Amanda’s backlog. So if you’ll excuse me now, I have a lot of reading to get to.
“Somehow, no matter what I’d done - right or wrong - this woman still cares for me. She wants me. And we’re even better together now than we were before.”
October 9, 2021
A sweet second chance love story set in a small town where the once ambition driven Kennedy Stratford, returns home with disappointment in her heart. She's a girl conflicted because her dreams got shattered and the home is now where her heart had broken years ago, in Brookhaven
"I gotta go, Kennedy. It hadn’t mattered that I’d been reeling from our breakup. He had to go. And so, he had, delivering me my first—and only—heartbreak."
Meanwhile the town & it's residents are still there, Nothing much has changed.
Travis morello is still a force to be reckoned with, along with his family.
He's still hungover on Kennedy, his heart still belongs to her, which brings me to the big misunderstanding between them, they both suffered for a very fluid reason
"We’ve torn open an old wound, leaving it fresh, raw, and hideously painful. I don’t want to pick up where we left off. Because where we left off sucked. "
It's a nice story and written very well. Some scenarios are typical and quintessential to a small town romance. There's the effervescent, supportive family, there's a villain and there's a Damsel rescued by the cop in a lights flashing squad car.
Sweet, sexy moments are aplenty keeping your heart engaged and panties moist 😜
4 stars for wildest, perfect dream
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"I gotta go, Kennedy. It hadn’t mattered that I’d been reeling from our breakup. He had to go. And so, he had, delivering me my first—and only—heartbreak."
Meanwhile the town & it's residents are still there, Nothing much has changed.
Travis morello is still a force to be reckoned with, along with his family.
He's still hungover on Kennedy, his heart still belongs to her, which brings me to the big misunderstanding between them, they both suffered for a very fluid reason
"We’ve torn open an old wound, leaving it fresh, raw, and hideously painful. I don’t want to pick up where we left off. Because where we left off sucked. "
It's a nice story and written very well. Some scenarios are typical and quintessential to a small town romance. There's the effervescent, supportive family, there's a villain and there's a Damsel rescued by the cop in a lights flashing squad car.
Sweet, sexy moments are aplenty keeping your heart engaged and panties moist 😜
4 stars for wildest, perfect dream
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
October 5, 2021
The First Heartbreak is the first book in the new series by Amanda Bailey. Brookhaven Blues takes us into the lives of the Brookhaven PD. We’ve met a few of them in the Dare to Dream series.
Kennedy is back in Brookhaven after her ballet career in New York City ends and she realizes her parents really need her back at home. Coming back to the small town is hard enough, but the one person she hopes to avoid, is one of the first people she sees.
Travis can’t believe his eyes. His sweet Kennedy is back. But she’s not his. Not since he broke her heart before she left for NYC. He believed he was doing it for the right reasons. Maybe he can make up for it. Make her understand why he did what he did.
Kennedy wants to be mad, but every time she and Travis are near each other the sparks fly. Just like they used to in high school. Only now they are older and know so much more.
They will need a lot of talking and spending time together to work on clearing the air between them, and boy, do they get that time. In very HOT ways. A little bit of suspense adds to this great story. Never doubt a ballerina who knows that ballet shoes have multiple uses!
I can’t wait to see what the rest of this series will hold!
Kennedy is back in Brookhaven after her ballet career in New York City ends and she realizes her parents really need her back at home. Coming back to the small town is hard enough, but the one person she hopes to avoid, is one of the first people she sees.
Travis can’t believe his eyes. His sweet Kennedy is back. But she’s not his. Not since he broke her heart before she left for NYC. He believed he was doing it for the right reasons. Maybe he can make up for it. Make her understand why he did what he did.
Kennedy wants to be mad, but every time she and Travis are near each other the sparks fly. Just like they used to in high school. Only now they are older and know so much more.
They will need a lot of talking and spending time together to work on clearing the air between them, and boy, do they get that time. In very HOT ways. A little bit of suspense adds to this great story. Never doubt a ballerina who knows that ballet shoes have multiple uses!
I can’t wait to see what the rest of this series will hold!
October 6, 2021
Amanda, you have done it again. Absolutely amazing story. I loved every moment of reading it.
The First Heartbreak is the first book in the new series by Amanda Bailey.
Travis and Kennedy were childhood sweethearts but Kennedy leaves the small town of Brookhaven to follow her dreams as a ballet dancer to New York after Travis breaks her heart. Now she's back and runs into the one person she wanted to avoid.
Kennedy has returned to her hometown after her ballet career in New York City ends and she realizes her parents really need her back at home.
Thing is, no matter how much she wants to avoid him, it's your typical small town, you are bound to run into each other, a lot......
This is a story of heartbreak, family, second chances and never really falling out of love.
Amanda writes characters that you can relate to and is an absolutely amazing storyteller. You really get a sense of how each character is in this book, even the minor ones, as she breathes as much life into them as she does the main characters. Not many authors are able to do that, but she is.
I can't wait for the second book of the series in January!!
If you're looking for a HEA contemporary romance that involves first loves, second chances, and a cop hero( yes... everyone loves a man in uniform!) Then this is the book for you.
**𝑨𝒏 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒍𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘**
The First Heartbreak is the first book in the new series by Amanda Bailey.
Travis and Kennedy were childhood sweethearts but Kennedy leaves the small town of Brookhaven to follow her dreams as a ballet dancer to New York after Travis breaks her heart. Now she's back and runs into the one person she wanted to avoid.
Kennedy has returned to her hometown after her ballet career in New York City ends and she realizes her parents really need her back at home.
Thing is, no matter how much she wants to avoid him, it's your typical small town, you are bound to run into each other, a lot......
This is a story of heartbreak, family, second chances and never really falling out of love.
Amanda writes characters that you can relate to and is an absolutely amazing storyteller. You really get a sense of how each character is in this book, even the minor ones, as she breathes as much life into them as she does the main characters. Not many authors are able to do that, but she is.
I can't wait for the second book of the series in January!!
If you're looking for a HEA contemporary romance that involves first loves, second chances, and a cop hero( yes... everyone loves a man in uniform!) Then this is the book for you.
**𝑨𝒏 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒍𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘**
October 6, 2021
This book was amazing. Travis and Kennedy were perfect for each other. After seeing each other for the first time in years the sparks and chemistry between these two is still there and more intense than ever. The steam level in this book is so hot that it will melt your kindle while reading it. The books packs a punch with the level of steam, banter, chemistry, small-town romance and getting a second at love. This book was amazing and I can't wait for book 2 in this series to come out.
October 6, 2021
Absolutely fantastic second chance romance! I loved Travis and Kennedy’s story so much!!! High School sweat hearts, broken a part to only be reconnected in a way that is amazing years later. So entertaining to read. I was holding onto every word in this story needing to know what was going to happen! Would they get back together? Would they not? They have so much history between the two of them. It was a fantastic and beautiful read!
Their were unexpected twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat. Travis being a police officer, I thought their was a possibility of drama, but what played out in the story I never saw coming. It had my mouth on the floor. So good! Also some familiar characters came back in this book. I love when Amanda does that in her writing, because I never want her characters to go away.
This book was awesome! Amanda’s writing is incredible. She tells a story and has you hooked by the first chapter. This book is a must devour. It will have you tearing up at parts, swooning at others and begging for so much more awesomeness from the series!!!
Their were unexpected twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat. Travis being a police officer, I thought their was a possibility of drama, but what played out in the story I never saw coming. It had my mouth on the floor. So good! Also some familiar characters came back in this book. I love when Amanda does that in her writing, because I never want her characters to go away.
This book was awesome! Amanda’s writing is incredible. She tells a story and has you hooked by the first chapter. This book is a must devour. It will have you tearing up at parts, swooning at others and begging for so much more awesomeness from the series!!!
December 14, 2021
This book launches another series by Ms. Bailey, and readers will be immediately drawn in! A must-read for lovers of sexy cops and small town romance.
Read full review in the 2021 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 9, 2021
4 refreshing ⭐️’s
Second chance romances are one of my faves and this is so good and yummy. If two people are ever meant to be together it’s Kennedy and Travis. Amanda Bailey delivers a heartbreaking story of selfless devotion while being sweet and endearing and, of course, toss-your-panties steamy sex. The longing between Travis and Kennedy offer delicious built-up tension.
One thing that stood out about this book is the honesty of the characters. Some authors create characters with personality traits that are used to extend the angst and drama unnecessarily. It could be the aloof male or the female that holds a grudge too long. All used to create interest. Yet Bailey writes these characters with a depth and heart-on-your-sleeve honesty that is refreshing, while maintaining the readers interest. Travis doesn’t hide his feelings and I love that. And Kennedy doesn’t play unnecessary games. Bailey proves that a man doesn’t have to be aloof and controlling to be an Alpha.
I can’t wait for Logan’s story next.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Second chance romances are one of my faves and this is so good and yummy. If two people are ever meant to be together it’s Kennedy and Travis. Amanda Bailey delivers a heartbreaking story of selfless devotion while being sweet and endearing and, of course, toss-your-panties steamy sex. The longing between Travis and Kennedy offer delicious built-up tension.
One thing that stood out about this book is the honesty of the characters. Some authors create characters with personality traits that are used to extend the angst and drama unnecessarily. It could be the aloof male or the female that holds a grudge too long. All used to create interest. Yet Bailey writes these characters with a depth and heart-on-your-sleeve honesty that is refreshing, while maintaining the readers interest. Travis doesn’t hide his feelings and I love that. And Kennedy doesn’t play unnecessary games. Bailey proves that a man doesn’t have to be aloof and controlling to be an Alpha.
I can’t wait for Logan’s story next.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
October 12, 2021
BEAUTIFULLY BROKEN & BROUGHT BACK TOGETHER IN THIS SWEET BUT HOT, SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE!!
Oh man, I don’t know where to begin. I’m a sucker for a good romance story. This book was perfect and beautiful and just like I love, it had a bit of mystery & a twist thrown in. It was also hot, sweet and had me laughing in some scenes. I don’t want to give away spoilers, so I’m going to have to tread lightly with this review, because I loved it so much it might be difficult to hold back. I’m sure we’ve all experienced heartbreak in our lives at some point, so Kennedy & Travis are relatable on some level, to each of us that reads The First Heartbreak.
“Look at you now, Kennedy? Yeah. Fucking look at you. You’re amazing. And you did what you set out to do. You danced like a queen on that stage. And that’s why I did it. I wanted that for you. Seeing you have the chance to live out your dream? I’d do the same damn thing all over again.”
These two, Kennedy & Travis, are the perfect couple. Their chemistry is amazing and undeniable. I love how they pick up right where they left off, their connection so strong, it’s hard to believe they’ve been apart for 18 years. But Kennedy’s will to stay strong and let him know just how she felt about the past, made me giggle, with her little digs to Travis in the beginning, reminding me so much of myself. She’s a toughy…confident, strong-willed and fearless, going after what she wants. I love his protective side when it comes to her but also that he is always supportive in everything she does and will stop at nothing to prove himself to her, it’s just awe inspiring…and swoon worthy.
“Somehow, no matter what I’d done - right or wrong - this woman still cares for me. She wants me. And we’re even better together now than we were before.”
Watching them reignite and navigate their love & relationship was beautiful. I’m glad I was along for the ride for every moment they went through, that brought them to back to each other. Even the ending couldn’t have been more perfect. I simply just love these characters, all of them, not just Kennedy and Travis, but their friends and families too. I’m really hoping we get a book for each of them, because they all deserve their stories to be told.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Oh man, I don’t know where to begin. I’m a sucker for a good romance story. This book was perfect and beautiful and just like I love, it had a bit of mystery & a twist thrown in. It was also hot, sweet and had me laughing in some scenes. I don’t want to give away spoilers, so I’m going to have to tread lightly with this review, because I loved it so much it might be difficult to hold back. I’m sure we’ve all experienced heartbreak in our lives at some point, so Kennedy & Travis are relatable on some level, to each of us that reads The First Heartbreak.
“Look at you now, Kennedy? Yeah. Fucking look at you. You’re amazing. And you did what you set out to do. You danced like a queen on that stage. And that’s why I did it. I wanted that for you. Seeing you have the chance to live out your dream? I’d do the same damn thing all over again.”
These two, Kennedy & Travis, are the perfect couple. Their chemistry is amazing and undeniable. I love how they pick up right where they left off, their connection so strong, it’s hard to believe they’ve been apart for 18 years. But Kennedy’s will to stay strong and let him know just how she felt about the past, made me giggle, with her little digs to Travis in the beginning, reminding me so much of myself. She’s a toughy…confident, strong-willed and fearless, going after what she wants. I love his protective side when it comes to her but also that he is always supportive in everything she does and will stop at nothing to prove himself to her, it’s just awe inspiring…and swoon worthy.
“Somehow, no matter what I’d done - right or wrong - this woman still cares for me. She wants me. And we’re even better together now than we were before.”
Watching them reignite and navigate their love & relationship was beautiful. I’m glad I was along for the ride for every moment they went through, that brought them to back to each other. Even the ending couldn’t have been more perfect. I simply just love these characters, all of them, not just Kennedy and Travis, but their friends and families too. I’m really hoping we get a book for each of them, because they all deserve their stories to be told.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2021
5 Stars!
POV: Dual 1st Person)
Tropes: Second chance
Triggers: Stalker, Harassment
Likes: This is the best kind of second chance, not full of miscommunication angst! You could just feel the love and passion these two have burning through the pages. Plus I loved the added stalker drama, it really added a great extra level to this romance.
Dislikes: I would have liked an epilogue about the couple, but the intro into Logan's second chance has me gripped already!
Synopsis: The First Heartbreak follows Kennedy as she returns back to her hometown after being away 18 years. She chased her dream of being a leading ballet dancer in the big city, however due to an injury she's forced to move back home. Luckily she still gets to do the thing she loves, dance, teaching at a local children's ballet class. Luck doesn't seem to stay quite on her side for her first week back though, when she locks herself out of the studio and the police get called on her! To make things worse, the reporting officer is Travis, the guy that broke her heart in high school, causing her to leave town! They can't deny the attraction and spark that is still there 18 years later, but can they clear the air and move past their first heartbreak? Or is it too little too late? Especially when someone seems out to have Kennedy for himself!
I loved this story so much! My heart broke for Travis, sacrificing his own happiness for the love of his life.Can't wait for Logan's book!
POV: Dual 1st Person)
Tropes: Second chance
Triggers: Stalker, Harassment
Likes: This is the best kind of second chance, not full of miscommunication angst! You could just feel the love and passion these two have burning through the pages. Plus I loved the added stalker drama, it really added a great extra level to this romance.
Dislikes: I would have liked an epilogue about the couple, but the intro into Logan's second chance has me gripped already!
Synopsis: The First Heartbreak follows Kennedy as she returns back to her hometown after being away 18 years. She chased her dream of being a leading ballet dancer in the big city, however due to an injury she's forced to move back home. Luckily she still gets to do the thing she loves, dance, teaching at a local children's ballet class. Luck doesn't seem to stay quite on her side for her first week back though, when she locks herself out of the studio and the police get called on her! To make things worse, the reporting officer is Travis, the guy that broke her heart in high school, causing her to leave town! They can't deny the attraction and spark that is still there 18 years later, but can they clear the air and move past their first heartbreak? Or is it too little too late? Especially when someone seems out to have Kennedy for himself!
I loved this story so much! My heart broke for Travis, sacrificing his own happiness for the love of his life.Can't wait for Logan's book!
October 10, 2021
Talk about starting off a new series off with a bang! This second chance romance was sweet, humorous, swoony, and so VERY HOT!
18 years ago, Kennedy Stratford left Brookhaven with a broken heart and a dream to dance with a ballet company in New York. Now she’s back home to help care for her aling parents and hoping to avoid the one person who was her first everything... Travis Morello, the one who broke her heart when he threw away everything that they once had...
For Travis Morello, Kennedy was the one for him. She has a spunk and fire that always set his heart racing..beating for only her. He may have had his reasons for pushing her away, but now she's back and he's on a mission to set things right and win her back....
These two may seem to be thrown together by a cosmic force bringing them together once again. The sparks and attraction may have remained but, repairing the old wounds of The First Heartbreak will be harder than either of them have anticipated....
This was such a fantastic story of first love and finding your way back to each other after heartbreak. From beginning to end I was completely invested. Travis and Kennedy have a chemistry that about set my kindle on fire and I was totally HERE FOR IT! This was such a fantastic beginning to what I'm sure will be an amazing series!
Amanda has a way of drawing you in right from the beginning with her amazing characters and compelling stories that you simply won't want to put down. Trust me, been there...bought ALL THE BOOKS🤣❤
This was an amazing read that delivers heart, plenty of heat, and was highly entertaining from start to finish! Get this book on your TBR NOW! You'll be glad you did!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review *
18 years ago, Kennedy Stratford left Brookhaven with a broken heart and a dream to dance with a ballet company in New York. Now she’s back home to help care for her aling parents and hoping to avoid the one person who was her first everything... Travis Morello, the one who broke her heart when he threw away everything that they once had...
For Travis Morello, Kennedy was the one for him. She has a spunk and fire that always set his heart racing..beating for only her. He may have had his reasons for pushing her away, but now she's back and he's on a mission to set things right and win her back....
These two may seem to be thrown together by a cosmic force bringing them together once again. The sparks and attraction may have remained but, repairing the old wounds of The First Heartbreak will be harder than either of them have anticipated....
This was such a fantastic story of first love and finding your way back to each other after heartbreak. From beginning to end I was completely invested. Travis and Kennedy have a chemistry that about set my kindle on fire and I was totally HERE FOR IT! This was such a fantastic beginning to what I'm sure will be an amazing series!
Amanda has a way of drawing you in right from the beginning with her amazing characters and compelling stories that you simply won't want to put down. Trust me, been there...bought ALL THE BOOKS🤣❤
This was an amazing read that delivers heart, plenty of heat, and was highly entertaining from start to finish! Get this book on your TBR NOW! You'll be glad you did!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review *
May 19, 2022
Kennedy Stratford. A small town girl with big city dreams, and the talent to back them up. Travis Morello. The man who loved Kennedy enough to let her go. Only problem? He shattered her heart in the process. Eighteen years later, Kennedy moves back to small town Brookhaven and crosses paths with her first love. She’s still so angry, yet somehow, there’s still feelings there.
Wow!!! This is my first book by this author, and it did not disappoint! I loved the town of Brookhaven, and I loved Travis and Kennedy’s story. This book had so much steam and so much angst, but I thought it was wonderfully written. At times I laughed, and at times I got a little teary. The best kinds of books are the ones that make you feel, and this book definitely does that!!!
Kennedy. She’s so strong, despite everything life’s thrown her way. I love her confidence and her sassy nature. I also love the fact that she’s gorgeous and talented, but not stuck up about it. Travis. I just love this man so much. He’s such a sweetheart, and yes, he made a bad decision, but he truly thought he was doing the right thing. I loved their chemistry as well! 5 steamy stars!
Wow!!! This is my first book by this author, and it did not disappoint! I loved the town of Brookhaven, and I loved Travis and Kennedy’s story. This book had so much steam and so much angst, but I thought it was wonderfully written. At times I laughed, and at times I got a little teary. The best kinds of books are the ones that make you feel, and this book definitely does that!!!
Kennedy. She’s so strong, despite everything life’s thrown her way. I love her confidence and her sassy nature. I also love the fact that she’s gorgeous and talented, but not stuck up about it. Travis. I just love this man so much. He’s such a sweetheart, and yes, he made a bad decision, but he truly thought he was doing the right thing. I loved their chemistry as well! 5 steamy stars!
October 6, 2021
I loved this story! Travis broke Kennedy's heart 18 years ago, when they were both just out of high school, but it was for a selfless reason. She moves back to her hometown when they're 36, and they slowly, but surely, find their way back to each other.
This book had everything, from jealousy and angst, with some mystery and suspense thrown in for good measure! Amanda Bailey is an excellent storyteller, and I can't recommend this one highly enough!
I received an ARC from the author, and this voluntary review is my honest opinion of The First Heartbreak.
This book had everything, from jealousy and angst, with some mystery and suspense thrown in for good measure! Amanda Bailey is an excellent storyteller, and I can't recommend this one highly enough!
I received an ARC from the author, and this voluntary review is my honest opinion of The First Heartbreak.
October 9, 2021
I was honoured to receive an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review. This is the first time that I have ever read a book by this author and I loved it and I will definitely read more of her work.
Travis Morello is a cop and most of his family are cops. One day he gets a call saying someone is trying to break into the local dance studio. It isn't until the tutu stealing theif turns around when he realises that it is his ex-girlfriend Kennedy Stratford.
Years ago Travis did something that completely crushed Kennedy's heart so Kennedy moved to New York to work with the Ballet Company but now she's back in her home town.
Whilst Travis trys to repair all the damage he did it's not until other people give Kennedy some smart words of advice that she starts to listen.
However whilst this is going on there is a dangerous plot going on at the same time.
Travis Morello is a cop and most of his family are cops. One day he gets a call saying someone is trying to break into the local dance studio. It isn't until the tutu stealing theif turns around when he realises that it is his ex-girlfriend Kennedy Stratford.
Years ago Travis did something that completely crushed Kennedy's heart so Kennedy moved to New York to work with the Ballet Company but now she's back in her home town.
Whilst Travis trys to repair all the damage he did it's not until other people give Kennedy some smart words of advice that she starts to listen.
However whilst this is going on there is a dangerous plot going on at the same time.
October 21, 2021
This is my first book by Amanda Bailey and it certainly won’t be my last. Now that I know this is a spin-off from another series, I’ll be heading to read that next.
I was instantly hooked on Travis and Kennedy wanting to more about their back story and how he broke her heart when they were teenagers. Kennedy is home after years in the big Apple dancing ballet. Travis and Kennedy’s first run in is quite funny and it sets the tone into their relationship for the rest of the book.
What I loved about this book is they didn’t instantly jump back into their feelings for each other. They both had things to work through and pass. It’s emotional, heart warming and had all the right feels! Can’t wait see what the rest of the series has in store.
I was instantly hooked on Travis and Kennedy wanting to more about their back story and how he broke her heart when they were teenagers. Kennedy is home after years in the big Apple dancing ballet. Travis and Kennedy’s first run in is quite funny and it sets the tone into their relationship for the rest of the book.
What I loved about this book is they didn’t instantly jump back into their feelings for each other. They both had things to work through and pass. It’s emotional, heart warming and had all the right feels! Can’t wait see what the rest of the series has in store.
October 8, 2021
The First Heartbreak
By Amanda Bailey
Main Characters: Kennedy and Travis
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
5 out of 5 stars
This is Brookhaven Blues Book 1. It is a contemporary romance with a HEA ending. I just love the characters in this story especially Travis. I think every woman would love to have a man that cares so deeply for them. Kennedy is a dancer who loves Travis but also wants to follow her dream to be a professional dancer in New York. When she graduates she doesn't know how she can leave Travis behind to follow her dream but it turns out that choice was taken from her. The chemistry between these two is as strong as it was in high school all these years later. Very good story!
By Amanda Bailey
Main Characters: Kennedy and Travis
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
5 out of 5 stars
This is Brookhaven Blues Book 1. It is a contemporary romance with a HEA ending. I just love the characters in this story especially Travis. I think every woman would love to have a man that cares so deeply for them. Kennedy is a dancer who loves Travis but also wants to follow her dream to be a professional dancer in New York. When she graduates she doesn't know how she can leave Travis behind to follow her dream but it turns out that choice was taken from her. The chemistry between these two is as strong as it was in high school all these years later. Very good story!
October 21, 2021
Doing what you think is the right thing without input from the person it affects most? Not the smartest thing to do, especially when it winds up hurting you so much. Travis, heart of gold - and knucklehead extraordinaire - learned this lesson the hard way. He’s missed his girl since he tricked her and sent her away, but now she’s back!
I loved every second of this story, from Travis’s misplaced and misguided stubbornness to Kennedy’s spirit and fire... and of course, the chemistry that sizzles between them and straight off the pages! The added subplot of stalking adds extra spice to an already great story.
Can’t wait for the next in the series!
I loved every second of this story, from Travis’s misplaced and misguided stubbornness to Kennedy’s spirit and fire... and of course, the chemistry that sizzles between them and straight off the pages! The added subplot of stalking adds extra spice to an already great story.
Can’t wait for the next in the series!
October 5, 2021
This book was wonderful! I finished it in one day because I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! Their story was so sweet that I couldn’t help but to cheer this couple on the whole time. If you want a feel good love story this is the one for you.
October 7, 2021
What an amazing kick off to this new series! This book can be a stand alone book or there are familiar characters from past books. I struggled with putting this book down at the end of the night, because of the hot romance that was building between Kennedy and Travis.
Even from the first moment they saw each other again, they had undeniable chemistry. Kennedy can't even stay mad at him, because of the chemistry they had, and they keep on forgetting pizza, first the counter then the shower, WOW!!!!
This is a must read book, the author does such a good job of describing each character and you really start to think of them as family. Can't wait for the next book!
Even from the first moment they saw each other again, they had undeniable chemistry. Kennedy can't even stay mad at him, because of the chemistry they had, and they keep on forgetting pizza, first the counter then the shower, WOW!!!!
This is a must read book, the author does such a good job of describing each character and you really start to think of them as family. Can't wait for the next book!
October 9, 2021
I recieved this ARC for a review. I fell in love with these characters. The chemistry was off the charts along with the feels. I highly recommend, Amanda Bailey always gives her books a happily ever after. Travis and Kennedy's relationship was so good I can't describe the feelings. These characters are entertaining and relatable. Fear of getting hurt, making mistakes, trying to grow from them and be better.
October 9, 2021
Amanda Bailey has done it again, I can’t express how much I enjoyed The First Heartbreak. I swooned the entire time while reading this fast-paced second chance romance that was full of humour, heartfelt moments, and steamy scenes, it has all the feels, and it was easy to get lost in the story of Kennedy and Travis. I love the ease of Amanda’s writing style, it was easy to pick up the book and not want to put it down. Fantastic first book in a new series.
October 10, 2021
I can’t rave enough about this author. Her characters are so well written. You feel like they are your neighbors! I want to move to Brookhaven! This second chance story will leave you begging for the next story in the series. Grab a blanket and a coffee and enjoy the beauty! I couldn’t put this book down.
October 7, 2021
Let me just say this was a great way to start a new series of books. I have loved Travis since I found out that he was Lucy's protective older brother. I was so hoping he would get to be in his own book. Let me just say, he has become one of my new book boyfriends. It was so sad the history that he had Kennedy had in the past with their break-up. I am so happy that they have reconnected and the story outline in the book leading up to their coming back together was so sweet and awesome. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. I give this book all the stars and more.
October 8, 2021
Kennedy and Travis have history and that is what made their first meeting again so full of emotion. Kennedy and Travis had a chemistry between them that was undeniable. They loved and they lost but they loved again and that is what mattered the most. Kennedy and Travis's story was absolutely fantastic, that it was a struggle to put the book down.
October 15, 2021
This is a new to me author and it seems that I started backwards! 😂
Definitely going back and checking Mick and Jackson’s stories.
This is a second chance for Travis to get the girl that he let go years ago! 🥺
Kennedy is back in town and trying to avoid the one that broke her heart long ago!💔
Travis did what he believed was best for Kennedy.
Even now, thinking about all he has done for her……. swooned! 😍
I love the scene of them seeing each other for the first time in so many years!! 🤣
The author is not only giving us a sweethearts story but she threw a bit of suspense surrounding Kennedy! 😳
Now, I kept dismissing this character because to me it didn’t had any motives and I kept trying to figure out who was behind it all.
I received and ARC of this story and this is my voluntary review.
Definitely going back and checking Mick and Jackson’s stories.
This is a second chance for Travis to get the girl that he let go years ago! 🥺
Kennedy is back in town and trying to avoid the one that broke her heart long ago!💔
Travis did what he believed was best for Kennedy.
Even now, thinking about all he has done for her……. swooned! 😍
I love the scene of them seeing each other for the first time in so many years!! 🤣
The author is not only giving us a sweethearts story but she threw a bit of suspense surrounding Kennedy! 😳
Now, I kept dismissing this character because to me it didn’t had any motives and I kept trying to figure out who was behind it all.
I received and ARC of this story and this is my voluntary review.
October 8, 2021
A swoon worthy story about second chances at love. Travis and Kennedy’s story has everything. Romance, steam, heartbreak and forgiveness. What more could you ask. Loved it!!!
November 1, 2021
This was just too easy. They fell into bed with one another too fast, and Kennedy went from professional to pussy as soon as she saw her ex again. F**k that. There was promise, but it went to shit when the romance lost the tiny bit of angst it had in the beginning.
Want to read
October 7, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/12/2022)! 🎁
October 2, 2021
Once again, Amanda has produced a happily-ever-after contemporary romance that keeps you interested in the characters and that moves at a quick pace. The First Heartbreak takes us back to Brookhaven and tells Travis’ story. While this is a stand-alone, readers may remember being first introduced to Travis in the Dare to Dream series.
In The First Heartbreak, Travis’ world is turned upside down when his high school sweetheart, Kennedy, unexpectedly returns to Brookhaven and their worlds once again collide. Their breakup at the tender age of 18 was heartbreaking for them both, and full of miscommunication. 18 years later, they find themselves trying to navigate old feelings and new as sparks fly and they both realize the passion never really died. As they quickly move from exes to something more than friends, Kennedy leans on Travis as she navigates challenges related to the end of her professional ballet career, her parents’ health, fixing up her house, and eventually a frightening stalking experience.
Amanda’s character development continues to improve with each book, and she does a good job of showing the messy roller-coaster of feelings that comes along with giving things a second chance after a first heartbreak. She did a wonderful job of capturing loving dynamics in her scenes that involve girl talk and family dinners. I would have liked to see more swoon-worthy scenes like Travis and Kennedy’s dance, and some more family time scenes in place of a few steamy scenes, but overall this is a solid novel. Grab a glass of your favorite wine and your comfiest leggings, and curl up with The First Heartbreak. You won’t be disappointed.
In The First Heartbreak, Travis’ world is turned upside down when his high school sweetheart, Kennedy, unexpectedly returns to Brookhaven and their worlds once again collide. Their breakup at the tender age of 18 was heartbreaking for them both, and full of miscommunication. 18 years later, they find themselves trying to navigate old feelings and new as sparks fly and they both realize the passion never really died. As they quickly move from exes to something more than friends, Kennedy leans on Travis as she navigates challenges related to the end of her professional ballet career, her parents’ health, fixing up her house, and eventually a frightening stalking experience.
Amanda’s character development continues to improve with each book, and she does a good job of showing the messy roller-coaster of feelings that comes along with giving things a second chance after a first heartbreak. She did a wonderful job of capturing loving dynamics in her scenes that involve girl talk and family dinners. I would have liked to see more swoon-worthy scenes like Travis and Kennedy’s dance, and some more family time scenes in place of a few steamy scenes, but overall this is a solid novel. Grab a glass of your favorite wine and your comfiest leggings, and curl up with The First Heartbreak. You won’t be disappointed.
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