He lives in the spotlight. She hides in the shadows. With secrets and a spark between them, can they escape to forever?
Max Davenport craves a break from the press. Constantly on the run from paparazzi and over-enthusiastic women, the football star takes to the small town of Green Hills to embrace a simpler lifestyle with his sister. But his pulse unexpectedly quickens when he discovers his sibling’s usually frumpy-dressed friend swimming in his backyard pool…opening his eyes to her breathtaking beauty.
Janie Lyn needs to stay under the radar. Desperate to remain hidden for reasons she dare not reveal, she’s thrown when her private crush suddenly shows more than a passing interest. Struggling to resist temptation, she’s terrified to risk her dark secret being exposed in his limelight.
As Max’s attempts to persuade Janie to be seen out and about with him continuously fail, he fears that their relationship won’t survive her steadfast hesitancy. And when Janie Lyn finally opens up about what she’s dodging, her dangerous past threatens to put both their lives on the line.
Can the couple step into the public eye and still find their happily ever after?
In the Trenches is the gripping second book in the wholesome Green Hills romance series. If you like well-drawn characters, deep attractions, and thoughtful settings, then you’ll adore Virginia’dele Smith’s heartwarming tales of small-town love stories.
Ashli Montgomery is a wife, a momma, and an author whose passion is sharing love stories, books, quilts, yoga, recipes, and all of her favorite things in life. She is quilting to mend the mind by spearheading and educating a community of friends who love quilts and quilting but hate Alzheimer’s disease through Quilt 2 End ALZ, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit she launched to use her quilting hobby as a platform to advocate for an end to Alzheimer's disease.
Ashli writes under the pen name Virginia’dele Smith to honor Syble Virginia Tidwell, Adele Gertrude Baylin, and Etta Jean Smith. These three cherished grandmothers were beautiful role models, teaching Ashli to love without judgment and to always put family first. Through Grandma Syble’s journals and appetite for books, through Momadele’s priceless cards and handwritten letters, and through many, many hours of visiting over fabric at Mema’s kitchen island, Ashli also learned to treasure words.
You are invited to join Ashli in Green Hills and learn more about Virginia’dele Smith by subscribing to Ashli’s newsletter, The Gazette, at AshliMontgomery.com.
More small-town goodness I lived in the KCMO metro for six winters and this brought back so many happy memories.
Each chapter has an amazing quote, but my fave in the entire book is ‘A happy ending is actually a beginning.’
In addition to seeing how the characters’ lives progress from Grocery Girl, readers get a feel for the location and homeliness. And that it truly does take a village. I really like how the author incorporates family traditions, quilting basics, and even some baking tips. Just like in real life, these topics flow naturally. Especially the topic of Alzheimer’s and volunteering.
Looking forward to #3!
This series is way above romance and/or chick-lit.
DNF, he doesn’t notice her for the years he’s known her because she “hides” by wearing baggy clothing and glasses. But when he catches her wearing a bathing suit, he immediately realizes that she’s the one? LOL.
Feel the good vibes as opposites attract in this small-town romance Football star Max Davenport returns to Green Hills for some much-needed rest and relaxation. He never expected to see Janie Lyn, his sister’s best friend, in a romantic light. However, Cupid has other plans.
Both can’t deny the sizzling attraction between them, but they also can’t ignore the unwelcome challenges it brings. Janie prefers the shadows to keep her secrets safe, while Max lives in the public eye.
Max’s determination to change her mind threatens Janie’s safety. But she finds him hard to resist as they bond over meals in the kitchen, and time with his close-knit circle of family and friends. He’s every girl’s dream boat—handsome, talented, willing to be trained in the kitchen, and a protective big brother with sound family values.
Janie Lyn is smart, uber-competent, and has a heart of gold that draws people to her. This forces her to work extra hard to hide her identity.
The author seamlessly weaves quilting and fighting for a cause—in this case Alzheimer’s—into the fabric of this romance. Throw in a mystery and some action, and you have a tasty story perfect for a lazy afternoon. As for all the cooking and baking they did… I piled on the pounds just reading about it.
The characters are well-drawn. Max is the type of guy mothers would love their daughters to bring home, while Janie could be every woman’s best friend. The supporting cast of family and friends play their part without hogging the limelight.
Max and Janie Lyn’s story is the second book in the series about the Davenport siblings. You can enjoy their journey on its own. But the characters in the first book reappear to add to the story set in a close-knit community.
Each chapter starts with an appropriate quote that hints at what to expect. And while there are references to the Bible and faith, the story doesn’t meet the stricter requirements of a Christian romance. However, it exceeds the expectations of a family-orientated, slow-burn small-town family saga, and will satisfy readers of this genre. And while the story develops slowly, it gathers speed and rollicks to a fitting climax.
Overall, this is a feel-good romance you can devour in one sitting. I enjoyed this story from a new-to-me author, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
I could not put this book down! Such a wonderful read. I liked the romantic play between Max and Janie Lyn. This book also had a touch of quilting, baking, volunteering football and Alzheimer's awareness. It is not a cliffhanger, but I am looking forward to book 3!
I can't even begin to describe all the emotions this story evoked. It's a beautiful friends-to-lovers tale with elements of secret identities, suspense, and mystery all woven together. Best of all, it takes you back to Green Hills with Maree and Rhys, where you get to experience their love once more.
In this story, Max returns to Green Hills to take a break from his high-profile life. But when he arrives, he's surprised to find that Janie Lyn is temporarily living there. They've always been friends, working together on various projects, but she's always been shy, reserved, and mysterious. However, being in close proximity now, Max begins to see her in a new light. The quiet woman he once knew is slowly opening up to him, and his heart begins to open to her as well.
Janie has always had feelings for Max, but there's much more to her than meets the eye. Her secret could endanger everyone, and she's been hiding from the world for a reason. Meanwhile, Max is trying to escape the constant attention that comes with being a celebrity. Can their growing love survive the tension of their secrets? Will they ever be able to step into the light together, or will the risks prove too great?
I absolutely loved this story! I can’t wait for book 3! I already have a deep respect for Bren’s character, and I’m excited to dive deeper into M'Kenzie’s story.
As for some of the other reviews, I get that some readers were surprised when Max only noticed Janie for the first time at the pool. I understand that reaction, but it's important to keep in mind who Janie is. She's always hidden behind glasses, t-shirts, scuffed shoes, and a cap, constantly avoiding eye contact and keeping to herself. The pool scene was a pivotal moment for Max to truly SEE her, not just in a physical sense, but in a deeper way. I get why it might have seemed strange to some that he missed her beauty until then, but if you stick with the story, you’ll see that his feelings for her run far deeper than just that moment. He respects, honors, and loves her completely. That’s just my take on it!
This is book 2 of the Green Hills Series, but could be read as a stand alone. Janie Lyn is a shy, quiet, nearly invisible resident of Green Hills. She is always helping others and never asks for anything in return. When she gives up her room at the boarding house for a family who’s house caught fire, her best friend Maree tells her to live in her brother’s house. He lives elsewhere most of the time and Janie Lyn is managing his renovation anyway.
Maxwell is a professional football player in Kansas City. After a stressful week, he decides to spend an unplanned long weekend at his Green Hills house. When he arrives, he finds Janie Lyn in his pool.
This book was so good. There was mystery, secret identity and mobsters! There was sweet, sweet romance and some powerful kisses. I highly enjoyed it!
Football star Max has had to be the protector of his younger sisters since their parents’ deaths when he was ten. He wants the kind of love that they had, pure and lasting. He gets the shock of his life when he comes home unexpectedly to find his friend swimming in his pool. He never realized how beautiful she was, she keeps herself as covered and unnoticeable as possible. But he’s determined to prove himself and his love to her. But he never expected the secret that she’s keeping.
Janie-Lyn wants to be as unnoticed as possible. She’s in hiding from her family and the danger they pose to her. When Max shows up, she must redouble her efforts. He’s too well known; she could be exposed. But that doesn’t mean her heart doesn’t have other ideas.
From the title of the book this was not what I expected, but this was fantastic. Max Davenport is a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. He likes quiet times, and nothing flashy. Besides living in Kanas City, he also has a house in Green Hill; in which Janie Lyn is decorating for him. Max and Janie Lyn build a friendship into a relationship. We find out that Janie Lyn is not who she is pretending to be. What will happen to the friendship-relationship she has with Max? The plot is terrific, setting wonderful; and the characters are top notch! I cannot wait to read more by Virginia'dele Smith!!
A WISHING SHELF BOOK REVIEW 12th January 2023 TITLE: In the Trenches AUTHOR: Virginia'dele Smith Star Rating: 4
‘A cosy romance underpinned with mystery and danger. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW The second of the Green Hills books is utterly enchanting, offering the reader two captivating protagonists in the form of Max, a football star on the run from the ever-intrusive paparazzi, and a woman who needs to stay hidden! When Max falls for her and attempts to woo her, she finds it very, VERY difficult to say no. But she must, or her terrible, dark secret will be exposed! Sound good? Trust me, it is. I´m a big fan of the cosy mystery particularly if there´s a hefty dollop of romance thrown in. This is what this book offers the readers. It´s not amazingly thought-provoking, but it is a compelling story, the author working hard to keep it light, keep things moving and keep the spotlight on the blossoming romance. In all honesty, the first chapter is a bit of an info dump (lots of backstory), but the novel gets going in chapter two when he sees ´the woman´ swimming in his pool. And she looks good! I suspect most readers who enjoy ´mostly´ happy books will find this an alluring read, particularly if small town America is your thing! It´s all very charming, never overtaxing, and thoroughly compelling. So much so, I´m now very much looking forward to reading book three, Three Times to Make Sure. Cool title! Let´s see if that´s as good!
After reading Maree and Rhys' story in the first book, and having been introduced to big brother Maxwell and mysterious Janie Lyn, among other characters in the cast, I was ready to dive into book 2 of this talented author's series.
In The Trenches explains why Janie Lyn has kept a low profile and a disguise, and how Maxwell Davenport saw right through it, granted by chance, but he kept up with exploring the enigma that she was.
The writing is, as in book one as well, simple but reflective and shows the true growth of characters as they face issues like grief and trust and love and community.
Beside the main storyline, I enjoyed seeing the trust between Rhys and Maxwell build. I also liked the introduction that Bren got, it got me ready for book 3 which focuses on McKenzie's difficult but plain to see for all chemistry with Bren.
Each chapter opens with a relevant quote that sets the tone for what's about to come. And there are passages worth highlighting. These are books I will probably read on repeat because they bring a sense of closure, growth, warmth and cosiness to me.
Virginia'dele Smith is my new favourite author. It looks like there are two bonus stories available for free - Miss Sadie's being one of them. I am going to find out how to get those after I finish the series.
This second book in the Green Hills small town romance series is even better than the first book.
I love that Max’s and Janie Lyn’s story is the second book in the series. I feel that the author really continues to develop her existing characters, but easily distinguishes this couple from Maree and Rhys and other characters from Grocery Girl. There was no “wash rinse repeat” - this story was it’s own and wholly engaging.
The author stays true to her style of good clean romance and relationships. I really enjoy the quotes the author includes at the beginning of each chapter, in both books. The are short and relevant, giving you an indication of the chapter’s mindset and/or content. Cannot wait to see what happens with M’Kenzee and Bren in book 3…
Football star, Max returns to his newly renovated home in Green Hills for a relaxing long weekend and to see his sisters, Maree and M’Kenzee. He is astonished not only to find family friend, Janie-Lyn, living in his house, but even more so at her altered appearance. Their mutual attraction is immediate, especially as Max discovers Janie’s secrets and the reason she loves cooking and baking before the end of the weekend… The author then speeds up the pace of the story, adding a sense of tense anticipation to the plot, thus keeping her readers engrossed in the outcome. Football fans will understand the terminology used and appreciate the commitment of players demonstrated in some scenes; fortunately, however, this lack of knowledge did not detract from my enjoyment from the overall novel. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Good always finds good. Maxwell is a football player that has worked his way up to the NFL - Kansas City Chiefs. Everything is going right for him from awards to women. He is looking for that special one. Maxwell is originally from Oklahoma. After a tough week he goes “home” to rest. Janie Lynn’s at his house because she is keeping the house in good shape while he’s in Kansas City.
They are a perfect fit in everything they do from swimming to cooking. Maxwells family lives Janie Lyn. Nothing ever runs too smooth and, so it is in this story. There are hurdles that they both must get though but God is holding them in the palm of his hand
This is the second book in the Green Hills series. I really liked the first book but I liked this one better. Again there was a little too much thinking about how much they loved one another but by the last third of the book, there was a lot of action and I couldn't wait to see how the story ended. I like that it's clean, no sex and hardly any swearing. And the people of Green Hills were so close. I'd love to meet them. I'm looking forward to reading about M'Kenzee next.
An easy, clean romance that includes a football player for the Kansas City Chiefs and a runaway. I was drawn to it initially because of its setting -- Tulsa, Oklahoma with references to lots of places that I'm familiar with as a resident.
This new-to-me-author incorporates a little bit of mystery - just the right amount of sports-related activities -- and a sweet and touching love story. With a very likable cast of characters included as well -- she wraps it up nicely in a Happily-Ever-After!
Rooting for a follow up (especially for the unfinished threads)
This a warm, engaging read perfect for fans of small-town romance with a touch of mystery and emotional depth. The author crafts a story that is both comforting and compelling, with characters you’ll root for and a love story that lingers.
The characters are well balanced with the backdrop and plot, although at times the pace is more concerned with internal monologues.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a sweet story about a football player and a woman with secrets I enjoyed reading this and discovering the secrets involving some really bad men. The author has interesting quotes at the beginning of each chapter. This is part of a series, this is the only one I've read, but it stands on its own. There is a subtle bit of religion, not really objectionable to me who is not religious, but I probably won't read the rest of the series.
For the most enjoyment reading in order is highly recommended. Characters overlap. He's caught off guard when he comes home to find a female stranger in his pool. However he's far from upset. She's running and hiding from something in her past. Will she feel safe enough to let him in? What happens when her past catches up? Have they found each other only to lose it all?.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In the Trenches is a warm, feel good small-town romance with heart, depth, and just the right touch of suspense. Max and Janie Lyn’s slow burn relationship shines, balancing sizzling chemistry with meaningful themes of family, faith, and courage. The close-knit community, well drawn characters, and cozy details make this an engaging, comforting read. A charming continuation of the Davenport series that works beautifully as a standalone.
The author knows how to reel in the readers. I was hooked from the beginning and couldn't stop reading till the end. Max and Janie are wonderful characters. Their love felt real and I was rooting for them to get over the challenges and be together. It was a fabulous read. I recommend it to all romance and mystery lovers.
I FINALLY FIGUERED OUT THIS WAS THE SECOND BOOK FOR "THE GROCERY GIRL" WHICH I LOVED! "IN THE TRENCHES" DOESN'T FOLLOW "THE GROCERY GIRL", BUT WAS A SUPER BOOK ON IT'S OWN - AND IT DOES FOLLOW THE CONCEPT OF HELPING ALZHEIMERS - WHICH PLEASED ME. ON IT'S OWN IT WAS A REALLY GOOD BOOK! GREAT PLOT!
This was a story I won't forget! The small town romances always had a special spot in my heart. This one was more than just a romance, it was suspenseful and thrilling, it was sweet and sour. I loved it!
Max wants a break from the public. Unexpectedly Janie Lyn catches his eye. He wants them to have a chance but there could be a price. This was a really good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A heart-touching story of love between two very different people in a small town. It's an easy and enjoyable read from the Green Hills series, perfect for anyone who loves a good romance.