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Blue Moon #7
Where It All Began
"This would be a lot easier if you had a sense of humor."
"This would be a lot easier if you were a man."
Author's Note: Do NOT read this book until you've read at least Blue Moon #3, or even better #4. I'm protecting your reader experience here. I promise. Trust me there are things that happen that I don't want to blindside you with and murder all your feelings before you've even read the first few books in the series. So go ahead, buy it now. But do NOT read Where It All Began until at least after The Last Second Chance.
John has plans for these two hundred rundown acres. He sees a farm, a family, a future here. He's not about to drag someone in on the ground floor, not before he's put in the work to turn rubble into home. But his nosy neighbors have other ideas. Now, he's saddled with a grad student who's supposed to lend a hand. Hell, she was also supposed to be a he, not an opinionated, smart-mouthed woman who does nothing but question his every move.
She's ruining his nice, quiet life. And if she doesn't finish her thesis and get out of his guest room soon, he's going to have to scare her off.
Phoebe desperately needs this degree and the money it will bring. What she doesn’t need is this stubborn farmer’s attitude and his pathological need to avoid her. She’s trapped in this tiny hippie town, trying every trick in the book to get the stalwart John to open up. Her future is on the line. Her family needs her. And she’s not going to let a stubborn farmer stand in her way.
"This would be a lot easier if you were a man."
Author's Note: Do NOT read this book until you've read at least Blue Moon #3, or even better #4. I'm protecting your reader experience here. I promise. Trust me there are things that happen that I don't want to blindside you with and murder all your feelings before you've even read the first few books in the series. So go ahead, buy it now. But do NOT read Where It All Began until at least after The Last Second Chance.
John has plans for these two hundred rundown acres. He sees a farm, a family, a future here. He's not about to drag someone in on the ground floor, not before he's put in the work to turn rubble into home. But his nosy neighbors have other ideas. Now, he's saddled with a grad student who's supposed to lend a hand. Hell, she was also supposed to be a he, not an opinionated, smart-mouthed woman who does nothing but question his every move.
She's ruining his nice, quiet life. And if she doesn't finish her thesis and get out of his guest room soon, he's going to have to scare her off.
Phoebe desperately needs this degree and the money it will bring. What she doesn’t need is this stubborn farmer’s attitude and his pathological need to avoid her. She’s trapped in this tiny hippie town, trying every trick in the book to get the stalwart John to open up. Her future is on the line. Her family needs her. And she’s not going to let a stubborn farmer stand in her way.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2018
5145 people are currently reading
14419 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Score
70 books60.8k followersLucy Score is an instant #1 New York Times bestselling author. She grew up in a literary family who insisted that the dinner table was for reading and earned a degree in journalism.
She writes full-time from the Pennsylvania home she and Mr. Lucy share with their obnoxious cat, Cleo. When not spending hours crafting heartbreaker heroes and kick-ass heroines, Lucy can be found on the couch, in the kitchen, or at the gym.
She hopes to someday write from a sailboat, oceanfront condo, or tropical island with reliable Wi-Fi.
Sign up for her never annoying newsletter at https://www.lucyscore.net/subscribe-l....
She writes full-time from the Pennsylvania home she and Mr. Lucy share with their obnoxious cat, Cleo. When not spending hours crafting heartbreaker heroes and kick-ass heroines, Lucy can be found on the couch, in the kitchen, or at the gym.
She hopes to someday write from a sailboat, oceanfront condo, or tropical island with reliable Wi-Fi.
Sign up for her never annoying newsletter at https://www.lucyscore.net/subscribe-l....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 765 reviews
August 11, 2023
God this book had me blubbering. Johns death really got me. After reading all the books and knowing all the characters, going back to finding out who John was and then him dying really hurt. I just felt even more sad for all of the family now knowing him and what an amazing father he was. I loved this book. And I loved that it was written to be read after the first 4. I’m going to be really heart broken when I finish this series. It’s so easy to fall in love with these characters and really feel apart of blue moon.
Loved getting to see where it all began. Phoebe and johns love was so beautiful
Loved getting to see where it all began. Phoebe and johns love was so beautiful
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2018
5+ Farmer-Poet Stars!
*Note* This story is available FREE via Lucy Score’s newsletter. I have to say—I’d have payed many times over, for this incredible read! The writing is exceptional, and an incredible gift to her readers!
Gah....I loved his book so hard! There was definitely some ugly crying, as well as laughter, for me in this one.
When you’re completely invested in a series; then the author goes back, and writes a prequel to the whole storyline of the series— it may not go in the direction you’d necessarily like it to! Where It All Began, was an absolute home run, in my opinion! I usually like to read a series in order. I would recommend reading these books, in release date order. I’m so glad I got to know John, a bit backwards...it made this story all the sweeter.
I became emotional each time I read what John’s written words. He was secretly a gifted writer, that didn’t like to share his thoughts out loud, as much as he did on paper. He is, and I’m sure will continue to be, my favorite H of all these books! What a good, good man!
Phoebe, was an intelligent, spirt fire of a young woman. I really enjoyed getting to know the younger version of her. John and Phoebe’s story rounded this series out so beautifully, having had the chance to learn how they fell in love. How, Johns dreams, and wishes played out for he, and Phoebe, and long after...
*Note* This story is available FREE via Lucy Score’s newsletter. I have to say—I’d have payed many times over, for this incredible read! The writing is exceptional, and an incredible gift to her readers!
Gah....I loved his book so hard! There was definitely some ugly crying, as well as laughter, for me in this one.
When you’re completely invested in a series; then the author goes back, and writes a prequel to the whole storyline of the series— it may not go in the direction you’d necessarily like it to! Where It All Began, was an absolute home run, in my opinion! I usually like to read a series in order. I would recommend reading these books, in release date order. I’m so glad I got to know John, a bit backwards...it made this story all the sweeter.
I became emotional each time I read what John’s written words. He was secretly a gifted writer, that didn’t like to share his thoughts out loud, as much as he did on paper. He is, and I’m sure will continue to be, my favorite H of all these books! What a good, good man!
Phoebe, was an intelligent, spirt fire of a young woman. I really enjoyed getting to know the younger version of her. John and Phoebe’s story rounded this series out so beautifully, having had the chance to learn how they fell in love. How, Johns dreams, and wishes played out for he, and Phoebe, and long after...
March 7, 2018
Very touching and emotional.
Excellent addition to the series!
Great review here
Excellent addition to the series!
Great review here
June 26, 2017
I knew this story would make me sad. I mentally prepared myself for it. Or so I thought. The truth is NOTHING can prepare you for this story. You. Will. Cry.
I'm still recovering from the punch to my feels but I'm so happy Lucy wrote this story for us. It was just simply beautiful and I'm in awe of her.
John and Phoebe's love story is simply amazing and if you're lucky enough to have a copy of this you know exactly what I mean.
I'm still recovering from the punch to my feels but I'm so happy Lucy wrote this story for us. It was just simply beautiful and I'm in awe of her.
John and Phoebe's love story is simply amazing and if you're lucky enough to have a copy of this you know exactly what I mean.
October 11, 2017
First I want to state that Lucy Score's Blue Moon series is A-MAZING!!!! It is one of the best small town romances I have ever read. Seriously no joke! The people of Blue Moon are so fun, loving, caring, nosey and silly all in their own special way. You ever read a book and feel like you are part of the family?Almost as if you are actually there with them going through that problem together? Lucy Score can take you there in Blue Moon! Where It All Began is the prequel to this series. If you want to laugh, ugly cry and fall in love all in the same paragraph then I promise you this book is where you find it. Come find out why Carter, Beckett and Jax turn out to be the best men anyone could ask for.
In case you did not know this Where It All Began can only be read by signing up for Lucy Score's newsletter. So be sure you get signed up if you are not already. Also you can join Lucy, myself and other Lucy Score stalkers on Facebook in her group called Lucy Score's Binge Readers Anonymous. We all love talking Blue Moon, sharing great books, interrogating other author's and not only talking everything Lucy but we like to harass her with ideas for her next book. Come join us!
In case you did not know this Where It All Began can only be read by signing up for Lucy Score's newsletter. So be sure you get signed up if you are not already. Also you can join Lucy, myself and other Lucy Score stalkers on Facebook in her group called Lucy Score's Binge Readers Anonymous. We all love talking Blue Moon, sharing great books, interrogating other author's and not only talking everything Lucy but we like to harass her with ideas for her next book. Come join us!
July 23, 2024
Ugh this one had me a blubbering mess. 10/10 don't recommend reading while pregnant and hormonal
July 25, 2023
Such a cute love story. Pulled in my heart strings that’s for sure! I loved how it went through the different “seasons” of her life. It emphasized both loves so well and showed how wonderful they both were. Love the setting and the characters.
🌀Synopsis
John has big plans for his farm. Unfortunately for her, those plans do not include Phoebe. Poor Phoebe who is just trying to finish up her degree and is now stuck with this grumpy farmer. The town pulled a trick on him, sending him this woman.
As it turns out, she can earn her own keep. Not only is she beautiful but she can hold her own on the farm. It isn’t long before John becomes protective of her and not long after that he realizes he has feelings for her too.
A whirlwind romance followed by a difficult goodbye. Can she leave the man and the town she fell in love with? Well, if he doesn’t want her to stay…
🌀Synopsis
John has big plans for his farm. Unfortunately for her, those plans do not include Phoebe. Poor Phoebe who is just trying to finish up her degree and is now stuck with this grumpy farmer. The town pulled a trick on him, sending him this woman.
As it turns out, she can earn her own keep. Not only is she beautiful but she can hold her own on the farm. It isn’t long before John becomes protective of her and not long after that he realizes he has feelings for her too.
A whirlwind romance followed by a difficult goodbye. Can she leave the man and the town she fell in love with? Well, if he doesn’t want her to stay…
July 3, 2017
Loved this so much. Laughter, tears and the madness of the Blue Moon citizens.
How wonderful to get Phoebe and Johns story of how they met and fell in love.
Even if you have not read the Blue Moon-Pierce Brothers series you will still enjoy this lovely heart warming story, but it means so much more if you have read the three brothers stories first.
Phoebe and John have been a constant part of this series even though John is no longer living. His legacy and actions still impact the family years on.
A brilliant story by Ms Score available free via her newsletter.
This is my honest review of this book.
How wonderful to get Phoebe and Johns story of how they met and fell in love.
Even if you have not read the Blue Moon-Pierce Brothers series you will still enjoy this lovely heart warming story, but it means so much more if you have read the three brothers stories first.
Phoebe and John have been a constant part of this series even though John is no longer living. His legacy and actions still impact the family years on.
A brilliant story by Ms Score available free via her newsletter.
This is my honest review of this book.
January 18, 2018
Lucy Score has outdone herself! The beautiful love story of John Pierce and Phoebe Allen is just that. BEAUTIFUL. This story is tasteful and sweet and guaranteed to pull at your heart strings. If anyone can make it through this book without laughing out loud at the wonderfully absurd community of Blue Moon or without shedding tears at the love that shines through the pain of this same community then I pity that hollow person. Lucy has managed to write her way into my emotions yet again and I am in true wonderment of her superb skill!
June 25, 2017
OMG. I was so excited when Lucy announced that there would be a story for John and Phoebe. I was absolutely stunned with how well written it was for something she wasn't going to write. The story of where it all began for Pierce Acres was amazing. Not only do we get some more insight on who John was but we also meet the younger versions of some of our favorite Mooners. Absolutely loved this book. Thank you Lucy for your amazing story!!!
June 30, 2017
This book was just WOW!!! I thought is would be weird to read a book about Phoebe and John due to the fact that I've been swooning over their sons, but boy was i wrong. This book had me laughing (how could you not over the younger versions of the Blue Moon gang) and crying (i mean you knew it was coming but i was a mess). Lucy Score did a fantastic job making me me fall more in love with this town and the people.
February 3, 2018
Loved it! Cute, cute story. Great background on how the whole saga started and the friendships and relationships that grew through the years. 4.0 stars for the first 3/4ths but 5.0 stars for the last quarter. Phoebe comes full circle meeting John Pierce and the Blue Mooners, raising 3 wild boys, ultimately losing John and meeting Franklin. Adorably charming series and this was a great way to wrap it all up. :D
January 7, 2026
This one made me cry 🥺 i think it maybe would have been better to do this one earlier in the series? Felt weird going back at this time. But i still loved getting the full backstory on phoebe and John!
August 20, 2019
I have to admit I was not a fan of the idea of a book about John Pierce. Anybody that has read any of the Blue Moon series knows about John. I just couldn't imagine it. Going back in time to revisit a painful time in Blue Moon history. I even held off reading it for months. But once again, Lucy Score handled my heart with care and love. This is my formal apology to Lucy for doubting her. She had a story to tell, felt compelled to share John's story with her readers. And what a wonderful story it was.
January 18, 2018
WOW!!! What can I say. This story had me on a roller coaster of emotions. Laughed, cried and swooned. So beautifully written to capture the beginning of our beloved Blue Moon family. Now I have to read the others again. You did good. 😍😍😍
February 28, 2024
This prequel was everything and more 🥹❤️
February 11, 2025
Alexa, play “I am not okay” by Jelly Roll 😭🤍
The way blue moon stands ten toes down for their town…there’s nothing that compares 🤞🏻
The way blue moon stands ten toes down for their town…there’s nothing that compares 🤞🏻
October 2, 2025
I am not usually the type to write a review, but this book was so good I have to do one. I love all of the previous books in this series as well, but this book hits different.
Warning for those who have not read it yet, it gets very emotional! I have never cried as much as I have for a book and fictional characters as I did for Phoebe and John’s story.
It really was a full circle moment, we got to finally see what type of person John really was not just his description by the other characters in this series.
This book made me fell in love with John’s personality and character even more than in the previous books and that is a feat in itself. John was already a loveable character in the previous books in this series.
Reading Phoebe and John’s love story really makes you understand and appreciate Phoebe’s character so much more.
This books was so good from start to finish!
Warning for those who have not read it yet, it gets very emotional! I have never cried as much as I have for a book and fictional characters as I did for Phoebe and John’s story.
It really was a full circle moment, we got to finally see what type of person John really was not just his description by the other characters in this series.
This book made me fell in love with John’s personality and character even more than in the previous books and that is a feat in itself. John was already a loveable character in the previous books in this series.
Reading Phoebe and John’s love story really makes you understand and appreciate Phoebe’s character so much more.
This books was so good from start to finish!
February 19, 2023
Wow! The most perfect prequel I could have asked for
I put off this book for ages as I wasn’t sure I could handle the emotion. But it was simply stunning: upbeat, joyous and life-affirming.
I’m madly in love with John Pierce and adored learning his and Phoebe’s beautiful love story as well as catching glimpses of the colourful, love-filled life they shared with their children. Lucy brings it full circle in the end as only she can, and it’s sublime.
I put off this book for ages as I wasn’t sure I could handle the emotion. But it was simply stunning: upbeat, joyous and life-affirming.
I’m madly in love with John Pierce and adored learning his and Phoebe’s beautiful love story as well as catching glimpses of the colourful, love-filled life they shared with their children. Lucy brings it full circle in the end as only she can, and it’s sublime.
November 6, 2024
It was a decent quick read but it wasn't special. The romance in it was good though
November 14, 2023
Muy monos los papis la verdad, he llorado un poquito al final pero me parece una muy buena conclusión de la serie, Lucy Score te amo you never miss❤️🔥❤️🔥
April 9, 2025
The end of this books reminds you of everything to be grateful for.
July 18, 2025
i liked this book but i like how close i am to finishing the series even more.
January 21, 2023
I loved this one. I actually had tears. So pleased to get some little background stories that were mentioned in the first six books. So cute!
August 19, 2017
When I read John's letter to Phoebe I fell in love with him!!!
September 2, 2017
This is a prequel to the Blue Moon series and it is sweet and sad and funny. If you've read the series and want to know more about Phoebe this is the book you want. But fair warning, being tissues.
May 30, 2020
Read this after the whole series
My lord. I almost didn’t read this as I am not a huge fan of prequels and I wasn’t sure how this story would be done. I didn’t want to have regrets or change my feelings on any characters I’d grown to love in the Blue Moon series. I’m so so so grateful I read it. I thought Carter couldn’t be replaced as my favorite male lead, but I was dead wrong about that too. John has my heart. This story was achingly beautiful and bitterly sweet. I cried through so much of it, but I felt lighter after I finished it. By far the best Lucy book I’ve read, so once again she proved me wrong, because I didn’t think anything she wrote could top Bootleg Springs, my previous favorite.
My lord. I almost didn’t read this as I am not a huge fan of prequels and I wasn’t sure how this story would be done. I didn’t want to have regrets or change my feelings on any characters I’d grown to love in the Blue Moon series. I’m so so so grateful I read it. I thought Carter couldn’t be replaced as my favorite male lead, but I was dead wrong about that too. John has my heart. This story was achingly beautiful and bitterly sweet. I cried through so much of it, but I felt lighter after I finished it. By far the best Lucy book I’ve read, so once again she proved me wrong, because I didn’t think anything she wrote could top Bootleg Springs, my previous favorite.
December 17, 2025
“He was going to have to burn down the house if he didn’t want a wife facing down memories of Phoebe here. She was everywhere here. Phoebe cooked while John cleaned up, they wrote together—John still refusing to share with her anything he’d written—and every night they made love until they fell asleep entwined.”
My heart, I was tearing up in the first 3 pages. John and Phoebe’s story was so sweet, and I appreciated how it was written. I found myself shocked by how much I have read, as the story flowed so nicely and kept me engaged. I loved seeing snippets of the three boys growing up, after already reading their adult stories. Great read! 4.25/5 ⭐️
My heart, I was tearing up in the first 3 pages. John and Phoebe’s story was so sweet, and I appreciated how it was written. I found myself shocked by how much I have read, as the story flowed so nicely and kept me engaged. I loved seeing snippets of the three boys growing up, after already reading their adult stories. Great read! 4.25/5 ⭐️
August 13, 2018
I read books 1-5 of the Blue Moon series earlier this year and I knew I needed some time before I would be ready to read John and Phoebe's story. I had hoped that taking some time off from the series would help me get through this book with less tears, because I typically read to escape and I enjoy funny, lighthearted romances. This book pushed my comfort zone and made me cry several times, but it is such a wonderful look into the Pierce family. I love this series and this is another great addition to the storyline. ❤️
November 10, 2025
4.5
I’d heard this one was an emotional read, so I was feeling a little smug when I got to maybe 90%ish and felt pretty good with how I’d been handling it. And then I got slammed with the sadness. To Score’s credit, the really sad part was glossed over. She didn’t leave us hanging in it. This really was a sweet, funny, uplifting story. We already knew the ending to this love story, but it still felt impactful and healing even through the grief. Highly recommend it (and the audio) to those who have loved the books before this one.
I’d heard this one was an emotional read, so I was feeling a little smug when I got to maybe 90%ish and felt pretty good with how I’d been handling it. And then I got slammed with the sadness. To Score’s credit, the really sad part was glossed over. She didn’t leave us hanging in it. This really was a sweet, funny, uplifting story. We already knew the ending to this love story, but it still felt impactful and healing even through the grief. Highly recommend it (and the audio) to those who have loved the books before this one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 765 reviews