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Only One #1
Only Him
I wasn’t supposed to catch feelings for my best friend’s older brother.
It started with a letter and grew into us confessing our secrets.
Then, he left, taking my shattered heart with him.
Twelve years later, he’s back.
We have to keep our distance. If we fall for each other, everything will fall apart.
But then I’m blackmailed into marrying another man, and the guy who broke my heart is the only one who can save me.
Only Him is a second chance, small town romance and is a repackaged boxed set from the Tyler & Gemma duet in the Lawton Ridge duet series. There's no cliffhanger and ends in an HEA.
It started with a letter and grew into us confessing our secrets.
Then, he left, taking my shattered heart with him.
Twelve years later, he’s back.
We have to keep our distance. If we fall for each other, everything will fall apart.
But then I’m blackmailed into marrying another man, and the guy who broke my heart is the only one who can save me.
Only Him is a second chance, small town romance and is a repackaged boxed set from the Tyler & Gemma duet in the Lawton Ridge duet series. There's no cliffhanger and ends in an HEA.
576 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2022
448 people are currently reading
1550 people want to read
About the author
Kennedy Fox
90 books5,812 followersBrooke Cumberland and Lyra Parish are a duo of romance authors under the USA Today pseudonym, Kennedy Fox. Their characters will make you blush and your heart melt. Cowboys in tight jeans are their kryptonite. They always guarantee a happily ever after!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
December 30, 2022
I received this as an ARC and am so thankful I was given the opportunity to read and review before its release!
This is my first Kennedy Fox book and I am so glad I read it! It gave me all the second-chance, small-town, angsty romance that I adore in books. And the spice??? Ma'am. I love Tyler with my whole heart.
The tension between these two and just all of the sweet little moments they had reminiscing on their prior relationship gave me all the feels. Very excited to read more with this author and series!
This is my first Kennedy Fox book and I am so glad I read it! It gave me all the second-chance, small-town, angsty romance that I adore in books. And the spice??? Ma'am. I love Tyler with my whole heart.
The tension between these two and just all of the sweet little moments they had reminiscing on their prior relationship gave me all the feels. Very excited to read more with this author and series!
August 28, 2022
Tyler and Gemma's duet is all together now in one beautiful book. This slow burn, angsty and drama filled romance is a little different from anything I have ever read by Kennedy Fox. This story follows Tyler and Gemma. Tyler is an ex-con, recently released from jail and now living back in his hometown. Tyler is hardworking, caring and one of my favorite heroes by Kennedy Fox. Gemma is determined, loving and always there for her dad. Gemma never really left home, she is working at her dad’s garage to help him out. Gemma and Tyler definitely have something still between them but there are some obstacles keeping them apart. Like always I love the side characters in this story, between Gemma’s friends and her dad. I’m so excited for part 2 and to see what else happens with these characters. Gemma and Tyler make a great pair and they are one of my favorite Kennedy Fox couples! Second chance romances are always so heartwarming, and this was no exception. Highly recommend this story.
October 12, 2022
4.5 stars
Wow. I could not put this book down (I only did when I was forced to go to work and/or for wifey duties).
This was a romantic suspense novel that I had noooo idea I needed but so glad I had the chance to read!!!
I actually had so much anxiety during the high stress sections of the books and if that doesn’t speak highly of the authors abilities, I don’t know what does!!! They blew me away!!!!
Gemma & Tyler are reunited YEARS later after tyler gets released from prison (after being falsely convicted) and goes back to his home town in Alabama. What he left behind was a girl who was head over heels for him, but he came back to a woman who was engaged to be married.
The story twisted and turned and I absolutely LOVED IT. The audiobook was great and the voice narrators fit the characters SO WELL. It also gave me fall vibes so it was just all around wonderful!!!!!
Spice: 🌶🌶.5
Tropes:
Second chance romance
Small town
Best friends brother
It’s always been you
Wow. I could not put this book down (I only did when I was forced to go to work and/or for wifey duties).
This was a romantic suspense novel that I had noooo idea I needed but so glad I had the chance to read!!!
I actually had so much anxiety during the high stress sections of the books and if that doesn’t speak highly of the authors abilities, I don’t know what does!!! They blew me away!!!!
Gemma & Tyler are reunited YEARS later after tyler gets released from prison (after being falsely convicted) and goes back to his home town in Alabama. What he left behind was a girl who was head over heels for him, but he came back to a woman who was engaged to be married.
The story twisted and turned and I absolutely LOVED IT. The audiobook was great and the voice narrators fit the characters SO WELL. It also gave me fall vibes so it was just all around wonderful!!!!!
Spice: 🌶🌶.5
Tropes:
Second chance romance
Small town
Best friends brother
It’s always been you
August 30, 2022
I think this is my favourite Kennedy Fox book so far.
I was totally engrossed from the beginning with the love story of Gemma and Tyler.
The suspense and twists had me not wanting to put the book down.
It's not as spicy as the Circle B Ranch series but there is still some really good spicy scenes.
It's Noah and Katie's duet next and I'm dying to know how he's going to win her back ❤️
I was totally engrossed from the beginning with the love story of Gemma and Tyler.
The suspense and twists had me not wanting to put the book down.
It's not as spicy as the Circle B Ranch series but there is still some really good spicy scenes.
It's Noah and Katie's duet next and I'm dying to know how he's going to win her back ❤️
September 10, 2022
Tyler and Gemma start out as friends but eventually Tyler leaves for the military. While Gemma is still in high school they stay in contact through letters. Four years pass and Tyler is back in town and everything changes and he leaves town.
Tyler returns back to Lawton Ridge years later and lands a job working at the local garage that Gemmas dad owns. Gemmas works at her dads garage, is engaged and while she seems happy, things aren’t always as they seem.
Only Him is a best friends brother/second chance romance that will have you hooked from the start. You get angsty and drama filled romance with suspense that will keep you guessing.
September 5, 2022
➳ Rate: 5/ 5 stars
Did you read Liam and Maddie's duet? Do you remember Tyler? Did you fall in love with him like I did? If you answered yes to any or all of these 3 questions, then you'll be super happy to know that his story is here!!!
Kennedy Fox never ever disappoints. I had no idea what I was in for in Tyler's story, I just wanted him to get the happy ending he deserved and he got it. And the way he got it, fighting for it, made it even more special.
I love that we got to see Tyler reunite with Liam and Maddie in the first chapter. Tyler and Maddie's friendship cracks me up and warms my heart at the same time. I love the bond they have. We also get to hear from these two a lot throughout the book and I love that. I love that although they now live far away from each other, they keep in touch often and are always there for each other. I'm kind of really hoping Liam and Maddie visit Tyler soon so Maddie can meet Gemma and Tyler's sister, I feel like they'd be instant friends and it'd be super entertaining to see them all together.
I also love the letters omg. I love that we not only got to see a little of past Gemma and Tyler in the prologue but we also get to read some of the letters these two exchanged while Tyler was in the military, it's such a nice touch to the story and it really builds the bond they created years ago.
Tyler and Gemma, as any second-chance romance where there is a third person in the picture, were very frustrating. I mean I loved watching them reconnect, reminisce, get over the awkwardness and try not to take their 'friendship' too far. It was fun to see them try to deny their connection and chemistry but also find a way to each other all the time, especially when something was wrong. As has been stated by me many times, I loveeee Tyler. I fell in love with him in Liam and Maddie's story and I was dying for his story. It's exactly like I thought it was gonna be frustrating, a slow burn that is always simmering and sometimes blows up but it was also so much more. I feel like Tyler is there to show Gemma what a relationship should and shouldn't be about and I truly hope she opens her eyes soon, or more, does something about what she's been seeing. For me, that has been the most frustrating thing about this book. Gemma's relationship with her fiancé, they are so different. There are so many things wrong with their dynamic and all the new red flags that he's giving her and all her doubts and still she just doesn't know what to do. Girl, the universe is giving you all the clues to make the right decision. Just make it!
Meanwhile, Gemma is in this mess of a relationship, Tyler finally gets his chance at possible revenge against Victoria but this opportunity is gonna put him on her map again and we've all seen how vicious she can get. I'm freaking scared for him and what's gonna happen after how this book ended. I feel like a partnership is about to be born and make Gemma and Tyler's lives hell. I'm scared but I also can't wait to see how these two will get out of all this mess.
I just really enjoyed this book and new world. I freaking adore Katie and Everleigh and even Ruby. I am already soooo excited for Noah and I can't wait to get inside his head and see him fight for a relationship with Katie and her son. It's bound to be a good one. But I am even more excited for Everleigh to get her own happily ever after. I am also super excited to meet her hero, we got his name in the info of the duet on GR but I don't believe we have met him yet.
And again, I obviously adored seeing Liam and Maddie. That last scene where they finally got to meet Gemma was the best. I would also love to see Maddie meet Everleigh in person. I hope these two visit Lawton Ridge in the future and we get to see them meet everyone else.
➳ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order on these: ⁕ Retailers
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Did you read Liam and Maddie's duet? Do you remember Tyler? Did you fall in love with him like I did? If you answered yes to any or all of these 3 questions, then you'll be super happy to know that his story is here!!!
Kennedy Fox never ever disappoints. I had no idea what I was in for in Tyler's story, I just wanted him to get the happy ending he deserved and he got it. And the way he got it, fighting for it, made it even more special.
I love that we got to see Tyler reunite with Liam and Maddie in the first chapter. Tyler and Maddie's friendship cracks me up and warms my heart at the same time. I love the bond they have. We also get to hear from these two a lot throughout the book and I love that. I love that although they now live far away from each other, they keep in touch often and are always there for each other. I'm kind of really hoping Liam and Maddie visit Tyler soon so Maddie can meet Gemma and Tyler's sister, I feel like they'd be instant friends and it'd be super entertaining to see them all together.
I also love the letters omg. I love that we not only got to see a little of past Gemma and Tyler in the prologue but we also get to read some of the letters these two exchanged while Tyler was in the military, it's such a nice touch to the story and it really builds the bond they created years ago.
Tyler and Gemma, as any second-chance romance where there is a third person in the picture, were very frustrating. I mean I loved watching them reconnect, reminisce, get over the awkwardness and try not to take their 'friendship' too far. It was fun to see them try to deny their connection and chemistry but also find a way to each other all the time, especially when something was wrong. As has been stated by me many times, I loveeee Tyler. I fell in love with him in Liam and Maddie's story and I was dying for his story. It's exactly like I thought it was gonna be frustrating, a slow burn that is always simmering and sometimes blows up but it was also so much more. I feel like Tyler is there to show Gemma what a relationship should and shouldn't be about and I truly hope she opens her eyes soon, or more, does something about what she's been seeing. For me, that has been the most frustrating thing about this book. Gemma's relationship with her fiancé, they are so different. There are so many things wrong with their dynamic and all the new red flags that he's giving her and all her doubts and still she just doesn't know what to do. Girl, the universe is giving you all the clues to make the right decision. Just make it!
Meanwhile, Gemma is in this mess of a relationship, Tyler finally gets his chance at possible revenge against Victoria but this opportunity is gonna put him on her map again and we've all seen how vicious she can get. I'm freaking scared for him and what's gonna happen after how this book ended. I feel like a partnership is about to be born and make Gemma and Tyler's lives hell. I'm scared but I also can't wait to see how these two will get out of all this mess.
I just really enjoyed this book and new world. I freaking adore Katie and Everleigh and even Ruby. I am already soooo excited for Noah and I can't wait to get inside his head and see him fight for a relationship with Katie and her son. It's bound to be a good one. But I am even more excited for Everleigh to get her own happily ever after. I am also super excited to meet her hero, we got his name in the info of the duet on GR but I don't believe we have met him yet.
And again, I obviously adored seeing Liam and Maddie. That last scene where they finally got to meet Gemma was the best. I would also love to see Maddie meet Everleigh in person. I hope these two visit Lawton Ridge in the future and we get to see them meet everyone else.
➳ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order on these: ⁕ Retailers
➳ Follow me on: Blog ⁕ Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter
October 19, 2022
This small town, slow burn, second chance is everything. I was not expecting it to have so many twists but I loved them it definitely made the book even better.
It’s been 12 years since Gemma and Tyler have seen each other. Gemma is engaged and living her best life until one day when she takes a step back and asks herself if she’s ready happy. Tyler is back in town working at the auto shop in town that just happens to be Gemma’s fathers so now they’ll be seeing each other almost daily.
The last twist is everything!
Tyler is 🫠 and I’m not a fan of that name but it works for the character.
It is a little bit of a longer one! I love a longer book but just wanted you to know.
“No matter how much time goes by, you never really get over your first love. They’ll always have a place in your heart, whether you want them there or not.”
“Just in case no one has told you today, you look beautiful.”
It’s been 12 years since Gemma and Tyler have seen each other. Gemma is engaged and living her best life until one day when she takes a step back and asks herself if she’s ready happy. Tyler is back in town working at the auto shop in town that just happens to be Gemma’s fathers so now they’ll be seeing each other almost daily.
The last twist is everything!
Tyler is 🫠 and I’m not a fan of that name but it works for the character.
It is a little bit of a longer one! I love a longer book but just wanted you to know.
“No matter how much time goes by, you never really get over your first love. They’ll always have a place in your heart, whether you want them there or not.”
“Just in case no one has told you today, you look beautiful.”
March 23, 2023
Way too slow and too detailed with things that didn’t matter or add to the story. I felt zero connection between Tyler and Gemma. The flashback letters felt out of place to me. There was also way too much about Tyler’s role in a previous book. I assumed this was a standalone but it sure didn’t seem like it. Not for me. I used to love this author’s work but this was a miss all around.
August 24, 2022
Only Him is a small town, second chance, best friend's brother with some twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This book was previously a two book duet Keeping You Away & Needing You Close so it was a bit long but it really didn’t feel like it. It flowed seamlessly and I never wanted to put it down so I actually read it quickly.
Twelve years ago, Tyler and Gemma had a very intense summer of love but then Tyler left. Gemma was left heartbroken. Tyler was seen in the Always Mine/ Always Yours duet and he was going to be spending some time in prison. Recently released from prison, Gemma and Tyler are now reunited and in small towns it is impossible to stay away from each other. I loved everything about this book. Gemma and Tyler are perfect for each other and I really enjoyed how they fought to be together. There were many surprises that had me gasping and the conflict resolution in this book was the most genius plan.
Twelve years ago, Tyler and Gemma had a very intense summer of love but then Tyler left. Gemma was left heartbroken. Tyler was seen in the Always Mine/ Always Yours duet and he was going to be spending some time in prison. Recently released from prison, Gemma and Tyler are now reunited and in small towns it is impossible to stay away from each other. I loved everything about this book. Gemma and Tyler are perfect for each other and I really enjoyed how they fought to be together. There were many surprises that had me gasping and the conflict resolution in this book was the most genius plan.
September 2, 2022
All the angst! Tyler and Gemma were pen pals while Tyler was deployed but when he’s back in town, they spend one blissful summer together. When Tyler’s ready to leave their small town, Gemma realizes she can’t leave her family and everything she knows behind so they go their separate ways. Twelve years later, they’re back in the same town and though almost everything else has changed, their chemistry hasn’t.
I loved this one! So much angst and drama which made for a page turner. Tyler and Gemma really fought for their love. Tyler had to overcome his past and Gemma had to figure out her future. Lots of steam and chemistry. Can’t wait for the rest of the Only series.
I loved this one! So much angst and drama which made for a page turner. Tyler and Gemma really fought for their love. Tyler had to overcome his past and Gemma had to figure out her future. Lots of steam and chemistry. Can’t wait for the rest of the Only series.
August 16, 2022
This a second chance small town romance. Long story short Tyler comes back to town after 12 years but its too late(lies) bc Gemma is engaged. But the problem is that she's not in love with her fiance and he turns out to be a giant asshole. Little by little Gemma and Tyler start building their friendship and figure out that they never stopped loving each other.
There's a lot of twists and turns in the story that makes you wanna keep reading and keeps you guessing but the last twist had me shocked. It was really unexpected and I'm glad Tyler and Gemma they're happy ending and we get a little bit about the side characters that makes you want to read their story.
There's a lot of twists and turns in the story that makes you wanna keep reading and keeps you guessing but the last twist had me shocked. It was really unexpected and I'm glad Tyler and Gemma they're happy ending and we get a little bit about the side characters that makes you want to read their story.
August 25, 2022
What an absolute WILD ride. So, this book is a combined previously-released duet in the Lawton Ridge series. That series has been on my TBR forever, so I was so excited to see that the 3 duets in the series were getting combined books in this new series.
This first book is Tyler and Gemma who started their connection as pen pals when Tyler was in the military. She’s his little sister’s best friend and it wasn’t until they started these letters that he took notice of her. He comes back to town when he gets out right before her high school graduation and they spend an amazing summer together. But, he wants to travel and explore when she can’t stand to leave her family and town behind. So he leaves and she stays.
12 years, and one prison sentence for Tyler, later and Tyler’s back in town and working for Gemma’s dad. There is so much incredible suspense that I won’t spoil, but it was amazing and had at least two plot twists I didn’t see coming.
The romance between Tyler and Gemma is definitely a slow burn, but it makes sense. It’s not rushed and when they get together they’re explosive. The ending had me absolutely shocked in the best ways and I can’t wait for the next combined duet in the Only One Series because those teasers have me hooked for more!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This first book is Tyler and Gemma who started their connection as pen pals when Tyler was in the military. She’s his little sister’s best friend and it wasn’t until they started these letters that he took notice of her. He comes back to town when he gets out right before her high school graduation and they spend an amazing summer together. But, he wants to travel and explore when she can’t stand to leave her family and town behind. So he leaves and she stays.
12 years, and one prison sentence for Tyler, later and Tyler’s back in town and working for Gemma’s dad. There is so much incredible suspense that I won’t spoil, but it was amazing and had at least two plot twists I didn’t see coming.
The romance between Tyler and Gemma is definitely a slow burn, but it makes sense. It’s not rushed and when they get together they’re explosive. The ending had me absolutely shocked in the best ways and I can’t wait for the next combined duet in the Only One Series because those teasers have me hooked for more!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2022
I've read the other two couples stories but this one kept evading me and now I've finally got to read it and know exactly how they ended up together. Tyler and Gemma had a short but powerful fling one summer. But it was cut short and they haven't seen each other for over a decade. A lot has happened in between. Like him finding trouble and spending 5 years in prison (framed). And she finally decides to move on from her love for Tyler and getting engaged.
But now he's back in town and her life and suddenly things are not how they seem to be. Her fiancé drove me crazy. I'm not sure how I feel about her dad though. I would expect a father to intervene when he saw how much trouble her "fiancé" was causing her. With a genius idea they manage to overcome all the problems and finally find the HEA that should have happened all those years ago.
Now that I'm finally caught up with the whole dynamic of this group I can sleep peacefully.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
But now he's back in town and her life and suddenly things are not how they seem to be. Her fiancé drove me crazy. I'm not sure how I feel about her dad though. I would expect a father to intervene when he saw how much trouble her "fiancé" was causing her. With a genius idea they manage to overcome all the problems and finally find the HEA that should have happened all those years ago.
Now that I'm finally caught up with the whole dynamic of this group I can sleep peacefully.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
August 26, 2022
I have fallen through a Kennedy Fox rabbit hole and honestly don't ever want to come out, seriously leave me here for the rest of my days.
Only Him is a small town, best friends brother, second chance romance. Tyler left the one girl he's ever loved, his small town and everything he's ever known for a chance at freedom, but 10+ years later he's back and while he's grown and changed so has his small town and the girl who stole his heart. Gemma is finally moving on after having her heart crushed all those years ago when Tyler left town and is determined not to let his sudden return upend her life, but life has a whole lot planned for these two.
Tyler and Gemma had me hooked from the start and I never wanted their book to end. From the moment we're introduced to these two sparks are flying and the way their love developed through their teen years through their letters gripped something inside my fragile little heart. Their twelve year separation damn near broke me because these two are freaking soulmates and I hated they spent all that time apart, and I hated all Tyler went through while he was gone; I didn't approve of him leaving Gemma behind but I also understood why he left, and why he felt he had no choice, and it made me sad that his leaving was supposed to change his life in all the best ways and it didn't. And Gemma, she was just absolutely precious and so deserving of love in all the best ways. I loved her relationship with her dad, her strong girl group and how hard she loved Tyler even after all they went through.
This book was so much fun to read and seeing these two characters who were so deserving of their HEA finally get one made my heart burst. Can't wait for the world to fall in love with these two.
Only Him is a small town, best friends brother, second chance romance. Tyler left the one girl he's ever loved, his small town and everything he's ever known for a chance at freedom, but 10+ years later he's back and while he's grown and changed so has his small town and the girl who stole his heart. Gemma is finally moving on after having her heart crushed all those years ago when Tyler left town and is determined not to let his sudden return upend her life, but life has a whole lot planned for these two.
Tyler and Gemma had me hooked from the start and I never wanted their book to end. From the moment we're introduced to these two sparks are flying and the way their love developed through their teen years through their letters gripped something inside my fragile little heart. Their twelve year separation damn near broke me because these two are freaking soulmates and I hated they spent all that time apart, and I hated all Tyler went through while he was gone; I didn't approve of him leaving Gemma behind but I also understood why he left, and why he felt he had no choice, and it made me sad that his leaving was supposed to change his life in all the best ways and it didn't. And Gemma, she was just absolutely precious and so deserving of love in all the best ways. I loved her relationship with her dad, her strong girl group and how hard she loved Tyler even after all they went through.
This book was so much fun to read and seeing these two characters who were so deserving of their HEA finally get one made my heart burst. Can't wait for the world to fall in love with these two.
August 20, 2022
This is the easiest 5 starts I have/ will ever give a book.
The most amazing read of you are a lover of:
• Second Chance Romances
• Best Friend’s Brother trope
• Small Town Romances
• Family / Found Family Dynamics
• A whole lot of drama!!
I have never routed for a couple more than I did for Gemma and Tyler. Kennedy Fox knows how to pull a reader in right from the start- since the very first page, I was hooked.
This is the longest book that I have read this year (I believe 574 pages) but honestly, it could have been over 1000 and I would have devoured every word.
The banter between all the characters and the chemistry between these two had me smiling throughout the entire book. I love them so much- I can’t wait to read further into the series!!
“As long as it’s us, I’ll be the happiest person alive.”
The most amazing read of you are a lover of:
• Second Chance Romances
• Best Friend’s Brother trope
• Small Town Romances
• Family / Found Family Dynamics
• A whole lot of drama!!
I have never routed for a couple more than I did for Gemma and Tyler. Kennedy Fox knows how to pull a reader in right from the start- since the very first page, I was hooked.
This is the longest book that I have read this year (I believe 574 pages) but honestly, it could have been over 1000 and I would have devoured every word.
The banter between all the characters and the chemistry between these two had me smiling throughout the entire book. I love them so much- I can’t wait to read further into the series!!
“As long as it’s us, I’ll be the happiest person alive.”
October 30, 2022
Loved this second chance/best friend’s older brother/slow-burn romance. This was previously a duet but now is a full book with no cliffhangers in the Only One series. Tyler and Gemma were such a great couple. When he was in the military, they were pen pals but wanted to be much more. When they had the chance to see where it would go, he was sent away and after 12 years he is back in town. She is now engaged to a man who she is not sure that she really wants to marry and he is working at her dad’s garage so they are around each other more and more. The more they are around each other the more their feelings come back to the surface. Loved their romance so much. A slow-burn romance done well. Tor Thom and Lia Langola have brought life to the wonderful characters that Kennedy Fox created. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
August 26, 2022
Only Him is the first book in the Only You series. This is actually a re-branding of the Lawton Series of Duets. Only Him is Tyler and Gemma’s story.
There is something about a brothers best friend, small town romance that gets me so excited. This is also a slow burn and a second chance romance so basically it checks all the boxes! Tyler and Gemma has a intense summer romance 12 years ago then he left. After being released from jail, Tyler is back and working for Gemma’s Dad’s auto shop so it’s impossible for he and Gemma to not see eachother. These two were meant to be together and going through the back and forth and watching their story come together was beautiful. This twists in this book I did not see coming. I am really excited to continue on to the rest of the books!
There is something about a brothers best friend, small town romance that gets me so excited. This is also a slow burn and a second chance romance so basically it checks all the boxes! Tyler and Gemma has a intense summer romance 12 years ago then he left. After being released from jail, Tyler is back and working for Gemma’s Dad’s auto shop so it’s impossible for he and Gemma to not see eachother. These two were meant to be together and going through the back and forth and watching their story come together was beautiful. This twists in this book I did not see coming. I am really excited to continue on to the rest of the books!
September 12, 2022
Now bearing in mind I have the audacity to call myself a KF fan, I have a confession to make… *mumbles* I’veneverreadtheLawtonRidgeduetseries! There! I said it. *hangs head in shame*
So, when it was announced that the authors were repackaging each duet as a boxset, I was all over it. It was time to right this wrong! *thumps fist down* (A tad dramatic I’ll grant you, but… *shrugs*)
Does everyone have their trope checklist handy? Okay, so we have:
• Small town romance
• Second chance romance
• Best friend’s brother
• Slow burn
I need to state for the record that that last one nearly did me in. Pfft, patience I have not! *smiles wryly*
Can you imagine returning home for a fresh start to find the one woman you have always loved is engaged to another man?!!
Then.. then! Can you imagine trying to finally move on from your first love by agreeing to marry a seemingly ‘perfect’ man and said first love comes back into town?!! Talk about bad timing. Or is the perfect time?!!
Ugh! *bangs head on table* The angst! The angst. Was. Real.
And don’t even get me started on everything else that was going on… secrets uncovered, true colours revealed, old enemies resurfacing. And did I mention the slow burn? I’m sure I’ll have mentioned the slow burn!!! Argh! *blows cheeks*
As a complete newbie to Tyler and Gemma’s story I loved the romantic suspense plotline. It was full of dramatic twists and turns that kept me hooked right to the very end. I don’t know how many times I screamed ‘NOOOO!!’ at my kindle screen.
Sure, I had to suspend my disbelief a couple of times but that’s what good fiction is all about.
Next up are Noah and Katie, *snaps big girl panties* I. Am. Ready!
So, when it was announced that the authors were repackaging each duet as a boxset, I was all over it. It was time to right this wrong! *thumps fist down* (A tad dramatic I’ll grant you, but… *shrugs*)
Does everyone have their trope checklist handy? Okay, so we have:
• Small town romance
• Second chance romance
• Best friend’s brother
• Slow burn
I need to state for the record that that last one nearly did me in. Pfft, patience I have not! *smiles wryly*
Can you imagine returning home for a fresh start to find the one woman you have always loved is engaged to another man?!!
Then.. then! Can you imagine trying to finally move on from your first love by agreeing to marry a seemingly ‘perfect’ man and said first love comes back into town?!! Talk about bad timing. Or is the perfect time?!!
Ugh! *bangs head on table* The angst! The angst. Was. Real.
And don’t even get me started on everything else that was going on… secrets uncovered, true colours revealed, old enemies resurfacing. And did I mention the slow burn? I’m sure I’ll have mentioned the slow burn!!! Argh! *blows cheeks*
As a complete newbie to Tyler and Gemma’s story I loved the romantic suspense plotline. It was full of dramatic twists and turns that kept me hooked right to the very end. I don’t know how many times I screamed ‘NOOOO!!’ at my kindle screen.
Sure, I had to suspend my disbelief a couple of times but that’s what good fiction is all about.
Next up are Noah and Katie, *snaps big girl panties* I. Am. Ready!
August 25, 2022
After meeting Tyler in Always Mine/Yours duet, I couldn’t wait for his story, and Kennedy Fox did not disappoint. After being set up and spending 5years in prison, Tyler is going back to his home town for a fresh start. Moving in with his sister Everleigh, he is given a job by the father of the girl who has always owned his heart. Gemma is no longer the young girl who’s heart he broke, but a beautiful woman who is engaged to another man. Although they are not together, you can feel the connection between Tyler & Gemma, with their chemistry apparent from the start. I loved the slow burn romance, along with the twists to this story, and the ending was perfect for this couple. As with every Kennedy Fox book, I highly recommend this as a must read, and cannot wait for the next couple.
August 26, 2022
Slight TW for mentions of weight.
Loved this book!!! I loved Tyler and Gemma and their romance! I loved the small town feel and the sweet romance between them both! I loved seeing Gemma slowly give into Tyler and her heart! The pacing was really good, this book felt like it had so much going on, and so much drama that it kept this book from feeling like it was slow, or that nothing was really going on. I love how Kennedy Fox do their work, how they really bring forth such amazing characters, give them challenges, and how in the end it brings everyone together. Loved this book and can’t wait to read more!
Loved this book!!! I loved Tyler and Gemma and their romance! I loved the small town feel and the sweet romance between them both! I loved seeing Gemma slowly give into Tyler and her heart! The pacing was really good, this book felt like it had so much going on, and so much drama that it kept this book from feeling like it was slow, or that nothing was really going on. I love how Kennedy Fox do their work, how they really bring forth such amazing characters, give them challenges, and how in the end it brings everyone together. Loved this book and can’t wait to read more!
September 1, 2022
I love these authors and all they write I devour. This second chance romance was no different. I loved the characters but this story was everything and the cover, it all fit so well and I could not put it down. I felt like I was getting to know them individually and as a couple like we were new friends.
August 31, 2022
Slow clap in the front for the ladies of Kennedy Fox!!! They have done it again. This is Kennedy Fox at their finest. They have managed to perfect the slow burn, angst filled, heartbreaking second chance story with the right amount of suspense and danger mixed in. Have you ever felt like you had heart palpitations that grew with every single page you turned? That is Tyler & Gemma's story. While I couldn't stop reading I also wanted to slow down and take my time because I didn't want the book to end but I couldn't stop turning the pages. Just when I thought I knew what was going on, they blew my theory out of the water and blew me away with what was really going on. This book was heartfelt, emotional, just the perfect amount of suspense, and a whole lot of "Woah I didn't see that coming!"
This book was EVERYTHING Tyler & Gemma deserved in a Happily Ever After.
This book was EVERYTHING Tyler & Gemma deserved in a Happily Ever After.
August 14, 2022
Title : Only Him
Author : Kennedy Fox
This is the first book with-in the Only One series and I'm excited for the other ones. Kennedy knows how to write in such a way that it just pulls you right in.
We get to read Tyler and Gemma's story in Only Him and it was everything. Second Chance at lost, a crazy Mob princess and so much more. You will be on the edge of your seat reading this one and you won't want to stop reading.
Tyler and Gemma goes through so much to get 5 steps ahead before being pushed 10 steps back. Are they able to get ahead at all? Will they be able to finally be together after so many years apart? I promise you will want to find out.
Author : Kennedy Fox
This is the first book with-in the Only One series and I'm excited for the other ones. Kennedy knows how to write in such a way that it just pulls you right in.
We get to read Tyler and Gemma's story in Only Him and it was everything. Second Chance at lost, a crazy Mob princess and so much more. You will be on the edge of your seat reading this one and you won't want to stop reading.
Tyler and Gemma goes through so much to get 5 steps ahead before being pushed 10 steps back. Are they able to get ahead at all? Will they be able to finally be together after so many years apart? I promise you will want to find out.
March 23, 2023
DNF - 27% just could not get interested, dragged on and on
August 19, 2022
This is the first book Kennedy Fox's Only One Series. I received an ARC for an honest review.
Tyler and Gemma have a history and a lot has happened in the 12 years that they last saw each other.
When Tyler first comes back to town, Gemma is already engaged to someone else.
Normally I wouldn't read a book that involves potential cheating or the end of a relationship just so they can 'hook up' with someone else. But having read and enjoyed other books from Kennedy Fox I persevered.
Gemma and Tyler's past is inter-woven throughout the story and as the story progressed, even I was saying "get rid of Robert, he's a douche-bag".
This story is about more than second chances though, and just when you think that Gemma and Tyler are going to get their happy ever after, secrets from their time apart are exposed.
There are enough twists in this book to keep you reading and wondering what is going to happen.
Personally I felt that the last twist was absolutely genius.
Tyler and Gemma have a history and a lot has happened in the 12 years that they last saw each other.
When Tyler first comes back to town, Gemma is already engaged to someone else.
Normally I wouldn't read a book that involves potential cheating or the end of a relationship just so they can 'hook up' with someone else. But having read and enjoyed other books from Kennedy Fox I persevered.
Gemma and Tyler's past is inter-woven throughout the story and as the story progressed, even I was saying "get rid of Robert, he's a douche-bag".
This story is about more than second chances though, and just when you think that Gemma and Tyler are going to get their happy ever after, secrets from their time apart are exposed.
There are enough twists in this book to keep you reading and wondering what is going to happen.
Personally I felt that the last twist was absolutely genius.
August 29, 2022
Oh Tyler and Gemma you stole the show with this story, this is a very well written book. Highly recommend
December 18, 2022
this is the first book in the only one series and i loved it so much! i absolutely LOVED tyler in liam and maddie (book three in the roommate series) and i was so glad he had his own story. tyler and gemma become pen pals while he is deployed and she is still in high school. tyler is gemma’s best friend’s (everleigh) older brother. they become very closer and when tyler finally comes home they have a chance to be together. they spend the summer together and it is everything they had dreamed of. when tyler is ready to move on and leave their small town, gemma is not ready. so they end things and tyler leaves town. twelve years later tyler is back and working for gemma’s dad at his garage. gemma is engaged to an older man but is starting to question if she really wants to be with him. there was so much suspense and drama in this book. i ate it up— and it always kept me on my toes. the chemistry between tyler and gemma was so good. it made you root for them the entire time. i love how protective tyler was over gemma. they really had to fight to be together and you could really tell they were always meant to be. i can’t wait to read the rest of this series! it left me craving more.
four and a half stars / two and a half chili peppers
tropes:
- best friends brother
- small town
- second chance
- it’s always been you
- workplace romance
four and a half stars / two and a half chili peppers
tropes:
- best friends brother
- small town
- second chance
- it’s always been you
- workplace romance
October 12, 2022
“𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦, 𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘸𝘦’𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘣𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘥𝘮𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘵.”
The first 50% of this book irked me so much, I literally could not stand Robert. He was like a cockroach, always there. I felt so bad for Gemma because I could tell that she wasn’t happy. And Tyler 🥺 ughhhh. Even though it was awkward between him & Gemma, he was STILL there for her. I just couldn’t help but root for him, especially after all he’s been through.
The little twist near the end had me laughing so much. I was so giddy that karma finally caught up to Robert.
And the epilogue!!! I CANNOT wait for Katie & Noah’s story!
“𝘍𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯’ 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵, 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦.”
The first 50% of this book irked me so much, I literally could not stand Robert. He was like a cockroach, always there. I felt so bad for Gemma because I could tell that she wasn’t happy. And Tyler 🥺 ughhhh. Even though it was awkward between him & Gemma, he was STILL there for her. I just couldn’t help but root for him, especially after all he’s been through.
The little twist near the end had me laughing so much. I was so giddy that karma finally caught up to Robert.
And the epilogue!!! I CANNOT wait for Katie & Noah’s story!
“𝘍𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯’ 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵, 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦.”
September 12, 2022
*Alexa, play "Wishful Drinking" by Ingrid Andress and Sam Hunt*
Love, love, love Tyler and Gemma. Let's preface this with you do not need to have read the Roommate Series, but if you have you'll enjoy this book ten times more because you've already gotten a sneak peak into what kind of man Tyler is and let's just say he is a dream come true. There is a lot of talk about remaining problems coming from Victoria aka the person who got Tyler put into prison for five years. The issues are explained well enough, but you understand how much of a bitch this chick is if you've read the other series. But let's get into the meat and potatoes here... Tyler and Gemma have a bit of a past. When Gemma was still in high school, Tyler was off in the army. Their only connection was through the letters they wrote to each other. Letters that let them have a confidant that they otherwise wouldn't have. During this time they're apart, some major feelings start to form. It's all leading up to Tyler's return home, where he and Gemma can finally have a chance to explore their feelings. With the exception that... Tyler doesn't want to stay in Lawton Ridge forever, so when he decides to leave after one dream-worthy summer, he leaves Gemma with a broken heart. That was twelve years ago.
Now, we start with Tyler getting out of a five year stint in prison, where he returns to his small hometown of Lawton Ridge. Tyler hasn't been home in twelve years, where he most recently was imprisoned for a crime he was framed for. He's unsure if coming back to his hometown is a good idea, but he needs some help to get back on his feet and a reintroduction into the real world. Plus his sister, Everleigh, and long-time crush, Gemma, is there.
When Gemma was left with a broken heart, she never thought she'd move on from Tyler. She would wait on him, except it seemed like he was never coming back. So, after some time, she finally decides to move on. One of the first guys she meets seems like a dream come true. Robert is a wealthy man who's hard working and passionate about his job, and has always dreamed of having a wife, kids, and the perfect happily ever after. Just as everything seems to be falling into place with Gemma and Robert with their engagement and impending nuptials, Tyler makes his return. Without Gemma knowing, her dad who owns his own car shop has agreed to let Tyler work for him when he gets back to town. This wouldn't be that big of a deal, except Gemma has worked as the front of house management for as long as she can remember and is suddenly faced with the man who broke her heart every day at work. Things are bound to get complicated.
---
So this book has a little bit of everything. We have best friend's older brother trope, along with second chance romance, with a twist of romantic suspense. Tyler and Gemma are so freaking cute it makes my heart want to explode. They have to fight their way through so much rough shit that it makes for a long, rough road to get where we need to be in the end. Without spoiling anything, we find out some revelations about certain characters that tilt our entire axis on its head. We have a quick reprieve from the heavy shit when we finally see some cute ass flirting happening and the ultimate date at the small town fall festival. *squeals ensue* For a hot minute, we get a cute Hallmark type of movie, but if you thought this was Hallmark, bitches you're wrong, we're on fucking Lifetime baby. We have so much drama to get through that it'll have your head spinning. Sneaky story lines come into play and we have to play catch up before we finally get our well deserved happily ever after.
Did I mention how cute the side characters are in this story? We have a whole universe of characters that I can't wait to see what happens for them. Everleigh and Katie are the bestest friends Gemma could ever ask for. Not to mention we have the friendship with Liam and Maddie that just tops off this sundae with a ripe ass cherry. SO. FREAKING. CUTE. Overall, just go pick up this damn book. It's got angst, spice, and mystery. I mean what else could you need?
---
For my jumbled, spoilery feelings on this goddamn rollercoaster, please uncover here:
(proceed with caution as I ramble about things you'd need to have read the book to understand)
---
TW: domestic violence, specifically verbal abuse with a hint of physical abuse
*Many thanks to the authors for providing a free copy in exchange for my honest review.*
Love, love, love Tyler and Gemma. Let's preface this with you do not need to have read the Roommate Series, but if you have you'll enjoy this book ten times more because you've already gotten a sneak peak into what kind of man Tyler is and let's just say he is a dream come true. There is a lot of talk about remaining problems coming from Victoria aka the person who got Tyler put into prison for five years. The issues are explained well enough, but you understand how much of a bitch this chick is if you've read the other series. But let's get into the meat and potatoes here... Tyler and Gemma have a bit of a past. When Gemma was still in high school, Tyler was off in the army. Their only connection was through the letters they wrote to each other. Letters that let them have a confidant that they otherwise wouldn't have. During this time they're apart, some major feelings start to form. It's all leading up to Tyler's return home, where he and Gemma can finally have a chance to explore their feelings. With the exception that... Tyler doesn't want to stay in Lawton Ridge forever, so when he decides to leave after one dream-worthy summer, he leaves Gemma with a broken heart. That was twelve years ago.
Now, we start with Tyler getting out of a five year stint in prison, where he returns to his small hometown of Lawton Ridge. Tyler hasn't been home in twelve years, where he most recently was imprisoned for a crime he was framed for. He's unsure if coming back to his hometown is a good idea, but he needs some help to get back on his feet and a reintroduction into the real world. Plus his sister, Everleigh, and long-time crush, Gemma, is there.
When Gemma was left with a broken heart, she never thought she'd move on from Tyler. She would wait on him, except it seemed like he was never coming back. So, after some time, she finally decides to move on. One of the first guys she meets seems like a dream come true. Robert is a wealthy man who's hard working and passionate about his job, and has always dreamed of having a wife, kids, and the perfect happily ever after. Just as everything seems to be falling into place with Gemma and Robert with their engagement and impending nuptials, Tyler makes his return. Without Gemma knowing, her dad who owns his own car shop has agreed to let Tyler work for him when he gets back to town. This wouldn't be that big of a deal, except Gemma has worked as the front of house management for as long as she can remember and is suddenly faced with the man who broke her heart every day at work. Things are bound to get complicated.
---
So this book has a little bit of everything. We have best friend's older brother trope, along with second chance romance, with a twist of romantic suspense. Tyler and Gemma are so freaking cute it makes my heart want to explode. They have to fight their way through so much rough shit that it makes for a long, rough road to get where we need to be in the end. Without spoiling anything, we find out some revelations about certain characters that tilt our entire axis on its head. We have a quick reprieve from the heavy shit when we finally see some cute ass flirting happening and the ultimate date at the small town fall festival. *squeals ensue* For a hot minute, we get a cute Hallmark type of movie, but if you thought this was Hallmark, bitches you're wrong, we're on fucking Lifetime baby. We have so much drama to get through that it'll have your head spinning. Sneaky story lines come into play and we have to play catch up before we finally get our well deserved happily ever after.
Did I mention how cute the side characters are in this story? We have a whole universe of characters that I can't wait to see what happens for them. Everleigh and Katie are the bestest friends Gemma could ever ask for. Not to mention we have the friendship with Liam and Maddie that just tops off this sundae with a ripe ass cherry. SO. FREAKING. CUTE. Overall, just go pick up this damn book. It's got angst, spice, and mystery. I mean what else could you need?
---
For my jumbled, spoilery feelings on this goddamn rollercoaster, please uncover here:
(proceed with caution as I ramble about things you'd need to have read the book to understand)
---
TW: domestic violence, specifically verbal abuse with a hint of physical abuse
*Many thanks to the authors for providing a free copy in exchange for my honest review.*
July 10, 2024
oh my goodness gracious. I am slowly but surely becoming a huge small town romance fan. and not only was this small town, but it was second chance slow burn!!! ugh DELICIOUS. Tyler and Gemma have my heart. I was rooting for them since page 1 🥰 loved the twists and turns, kept me engaged all the way through!!
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