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Lake Lenora #1
What Could Have Been
They say you can't go home again...
After finishing high school, Ashlyn left her tiny northern hometown with no intention of ever setting foot there again. But when her grandmother passes away, leaving the entirety of her estate to her estranged granddaughter, Ashlyn has no choice but to return. To make matters worse, it's the middle of the holidays—the time of year when "family" and "togetherness" always hits like a slap in the face.
She tells herself it's temporary. Just a short stay until she can untangle her grandmother's estate and return to her life in the city. But, back in the rural, rustic confines of Lenora, Wisconsin, Ashlyn is forced to confront the ghosts of her past—the flawed woman who raised her, the steadfast friends who saved her, and the boy she never quite managed to forget... a boy who is very much a man now, and who hasn't forgotten her either.
After finishing high school, Ashlyn left her tiny northern hometown with no intention of ever setting foot there again. But when her grandmother passes away, leaving the entirety of her estate to her estranged granddaughter, Ashlyn has no choice but to return. To make matters worse, it's the middle of the holidays—the time of year when "family" and "togetherness" always hits like a slap in the face.
She tells herself it's temporary. Just a short stay until she can untangle her grandmother's estate and return to her life in the city. But, back in the rural, rustic confines of Lenora, Wisconsin, Ashlyn is forced to confront the ghosts of her past—the flawed woman who raised her, the steadfast friends who saved her, and the boy she never quite managed to forget... a boy who is very much a man now, and who hasn't forgotten her either.
228 pages, ebook
First published December 8, 2022
148 people are currently reading
1538 people want to read
About the author
Heather Guerre
13 books1,016 followersHeather Guerre writes sexy-sweet fantasy, sci-fi, and contemporary romances. A hopeless romantic and an unapologetic nerd, Heather loves everything to do with romance, aliens, shifters, monsters, magic, and outer space.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
August 29, 2023
Heather Guerre has done it again. This book had me giggling, twirling my hair, and kicking my feet.
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Ashlyn Vandale (34) | Noah Sorenson (34)
FEATURES
∘ holidayish romance
∘ childhood enemies/crushes
∘ small town
∘ “ice queen” fmc
∘ she gets a scratch and he overreacts about it
REVIEW
Heather Guerre has done it again. This book had me giggling, twirling my hair, and kicking my feet.
Ashlyn comes back to Lenora when she inherits a house after her grandmother dies. Noah, her former high school nemesis (in a sweet, realistic way) and crush, owns the contractor company who is repairing the house her grandmother let fall to ruin. As misunderstandings are cleared up, we get to watch Ashlyn and Noah become genuine friends while they make up for their delinquent missteps.
This book was really sweet (do NOT get it twisted—Heather Guerre can write a spicy scene). The characters were not only lovable, but they were also likable. Sweet, mischievous Noah and kind, blunt Ashlyn seem like they would be mismatched, but they complemented each other. I wish we had gotten to see more of the side characters, but it’s no easy task laying the groundwork for a series!
It was refreshing to see a small-town romance book (gently) touch on the dynamics of living in a small town—you know, with the people who have difficulty adjusting to…being compassionate. Lenora, like the characters who live there, had its flaws and quirks that endears it to the readers more.
This was such a cozy winter read. It had it all: a terrible first kiss, a dilapidated house, and two oblivious dorks. I cannot wait to see what comes next.
OW/OM DRAMA none
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP not really — there’s a looming deadline of Ashlyn returning to Chicago but it’s not a bitter (or long) separation; it’s not really a separation at all
ENDING three days later epilogue
POV dual / third person
SPICE LEVEL 4 / 5
RATING 5 / 5
Reread Notes: Edited original review to fit current review format.
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Ashlyn Vandale (34) | Noah Sorenson (34)
FEATURES
∘ holidayish romance
∘ childhood enemies/crushes
∘ small town
∘ “ice queen” fmc
∘ she gets a scratch and he overreacts about it
REVIEW
Heather Guerre has done it again. This book had me giggling, twirling my hair, and kicking my feet.
Ashlyn comes back to Lenora when she inherits a house after her grandmother dies. Noah, her former high school nemesis (in a sweet, realistic way) and crush, owns the contractor company who is repairing the house her grandmother let fall to ruin. As misunderstandings are cleared up, we get to watch Ashlyn and Noah become genuine friends while they make up for their delinquent missteps.
This book was really sweet (do NOT get it twisted—Heather Guerre can write a spicy scene). The characters were not only lovable, but they were also likable. Sweet, mischievous Noah and kind, blunt Ashlyn seem like they would be mismatched, but they complemented each other. I wish we had gotten to see more of the side characters, but it’s no easy task laying the groundwork for a series!
It was refreshing to see a small-town romance book (gently) touch on the dynamics of living in a small town—you know, with the people who have difficulty adjusting to…being compassionate. Lenora, like the characters who live there, had its flaws and quirks that endears it to the readers more.
This was such a cozy winter read. It had it all: a terrible first kiss, a dilapidated house, and two oblivious dorks. I cannot wait to see what comes next.
OW/OM DRAMA none
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP not really — there’s a looming deadline of Ashlyn returning to Chicago but it’s not a bitter (or long) separation; it’s not really a separation at all
ENDING three days later epilogue
POV dual / third person
SPICE LEVEL 4 / 5
RATING 5 / 5
“You always hated me, Ash. I was a little biased.”
Her eyes went wide. “I—what? I never hated you!”
“It was pretty obvious that you did. Don’t worry about it. We were kids.”
“I never hated you. You hated me.”
He smiled wryly at her. “I didn’t hate you. But you definitely thought I was a burnout loser.”
“Noah,” she enunciated his name crisply. “I didn’t hate you. I had a massive crush on you for most of high school.”
Reread Notes: Edited original review to fit current review format.
January 11, 2023
The more I'm reading her the more I'm liking Heather Guerre books. Something about relatable flawed characters, a pinch of grittiness and angst and so much pining in her stories. Why, yes, of course the steam is chef's kiss too 🤌🏼
What Could Have Been, is on the sweeter side of what this author has written so far and it's exactly what I needed right now. I'm truly hoping this becomes a series because I'm so invested in some other characters pairings already!
What Could Have Been, is on the sweeter side of what this author has written so far and it's exactly what I needed right now. I'm truly hoping this becomes a series because I'm so invested in some other characters pairings already!
December 16, 2022
“That’s why I keep you around. For your big brain.”
He pretended at confusion. “I thought it was for my big—”
“Oh my god, don’t say it,” she groaned.
“—heart.”
She shook her head. “Lame recovery.”
The holiday romance I didn't know I needed 🥰🥰
December 19, 2022
How much I loved it!!
After a couple of not so great books, this one was like some fresh wind on a stale day.
I loved both, the heroine and the hero, even though I might imagine some people would be frustrated with the "misunderstanding trope". And even though I'm not a fan of quasi second chances, this one was wonderfully written, with so much heart and emotion but also sexy and fun, just like I know from Guerre.
PS. If the author is planning to write about all the other family members, I'm gonna eat all the upcoming books up!!
Izzy, thank you for bringing this one on my radar! x
After a couple of not so great books, this one was like some fresh wind on a stale day.
I loved both, the heroine and the hero, even though I might imagine some people would be frustrated with the "misunderstanding trope". And even though I'm not a fan of quasi second chances, this one was wonderfully written, with so much heart and emotion but also sexy and fun, just like I know from Guerre.
PS. If the author is planning to write about all the other family members, I'm gonna eat all the upcoming books up!!
Izzy, thank you for bringing this one on my radar! x
January 12, 2023
3.5 Stars
This was a cute little Christmas story and what I think is the start of a new small town series which I'm keen to read more about.
I enjoyed both the H and h a lot but I think as with a lot of first books in a series there was a lot of character introduction, setting up the town so the romance at times took a bit of a back seat. It was still very enjoyable and the chemistry between them was great but I wanted a bit more tension and less misunderstandings from the past.
Looking forward to reading about the rest of the H's siblings.
This was a cute little Christmas story and what I think is the start of a new small town series which I'm keen to read more about.
I enjoyed both the H and h a lot but I think as with a lot of first books in a series there was a lot of character introduction, setting up the town so the romance at times took a bit of a back seat. It was still very enjoyable and the chemistry between them was great but I wanted a bit more tension and less misunderstandings from the past.
Looking forward to reading about the rest of the H's siblings.
December 9, 2024
“What Could Have Been” by Heather Guerre
5⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“He’d grown and matured in countless ways—but apparently he was still a self-destructive tool when it came to Ashlyn Vandale.”
Ashlyn Vandale reluctantly returns to her hometown of Lenora to settle her grandmother’s estate. In the years since she graduated from high school, Ashlyn hasn’t visited once. She has her reasons for staying away, which she has shared with no one, least of all Noah Sorenson. Noah got into all kinds of trouble in high school, often butting heads with straight-laced Ashlyn. Now, over ten years later, old feelings rush back to the surface once they lock eyes in the local bar. Noah owns a contracting business, and Ashlyn hires him to fix up her grandmother’s home in order to sell. Now that the two are forced to spend time together, they start to realize assumptions made in the past prove false in the present. Will Ashlyn’s limited time in Lenora mend old wounds, or will the past be too difficult to resolve?
-If you only read one contemporary holiday romance, make it this one. Once again Heather Guerre proves that she is an auto-read author; every single book is exemplary. I put off reading this book when it was initially released because I’m not a fan of second chance romances. Joke’s on me, because I ate this trope up in “What Could Have Been”. Perhaps I’m rating this book so highly because I could personally relate to many aspects, and I thought Heather Guerre did a fantastic job navigating such difficult subjects. They write some of the best complex and three-dimensional FMCs I’ve ever encountered in a romance novel.
-Without getting too personal in this review, let’s just say that I understand what it feels like to have a family member adored by their community in the public, but behind closed doors they are a nightmare. I thought Ashlyn handled her difficult relationship with the memory of grandmother with grace, far more than I’m capable of.
-I loved the juxtaposition of Noah’s assessment of Ashlyn, and what she thought of herself. To Noah, Ashlyn is just as gorgeous as she was in high school. He tells her “you look the same”, which she doesn’t take as a compliment. But earlier we get a glimpse into Ashlyn’s POV and she refers to herself as boring, ordinary, and plain. We also see, multiple times, how Noah adores Ashlyn’s bossy nature, which she considers a poor character trait. They are such a great example of when opposites attract.
-Speaking further on them being opposites, I enjoyed the timeline jumping back occasionally to give context to Noah and Ashlyn’s current mindset. The gradual reveal of Ashlyn’s crush on Noah was just too cute, I loved that so much. In the flashbacks it’s painfully obvious that these are two teenagers that have crushes on each other, but both are either too immature, or too wrapped up in their personal troubles to see what’s in front of them.
-The holidays play a background role in this story, and not once felt domineering. Yes, this romance takes place over the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, but this is truly a second chance romance between high school crushes first and foremost.
-While there is some spice in this book, this story predominantly focuses on Noah and Ashlyn’s romance. They never had much of a chance to start any kind of relationship when they were teenagers, so the bulk of their romantic progress occurs when they’re adults. There is flirting, shy glances across the room, slight misunderstandings, and finally consummation. Now, just because I said there is “some” spice, doesn’t mean the spice isn’t hot. Like any Heather Guerre book, the spice is really enjoyable.
-I loved seeing little snippets of the side characters that will undoubtedly make up future main characters in the Lake Lenora series. I’m excited to read more about this town and its residents, especially the rest of the Sorenson family.
5⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“He’d grown and matured in countless ways—but apparently he was still a self-destructive tool when it came to Ashlyn Vandale.”
Ashlyn Vandale reluctantly returns to her hometown of Lenora to settle her grandmother’s estate. In the years since she graduated from high school, Ashlyn hasn’t visited once. She has her reasons for staying away, which she has shared with no one, least of all Noah Sorenson. Noah got into all kinds of trouble in high school, often butting heads with straight-laced Ashlyn. Now, over ten years later, old feelings rush back to the surface once they lock eyes in the local bar. Noah owns a contracting business, and Ashlyn hires him to fix up her grandmother’s home in order to sell. Now that the two are forced to spend time together, they start to realize assumptions made in the past prove false in the present. Will Ashlyn’s limited time in Lenora mend old wounds, or will the past be too difficult to resolve?
-If you only read one contemporary holiday romance, make it this one. Once again Heather Guerre proves that she is an auto-read author; every single book is exemplary. I put off reading this book when it was initially released because I’m not a fan of second chance romances. Joke’s on me, because I ate this trope up in “What Could Have Been”. Perhaps I’m rating this book so highly because I could personally relate to many aspects, and I thought Heather Guerre did a fantastic job navigating such difficult subjects. They write some of the best complex and three-dimensional FMCs I’ve ever encountered in a romance novel.
-Without getting too personal in this review, let’s just say that I understand what it feels like to have a family member adored by their community in the public, but behind closed doors they are a nightmare. I thought Ashlyn handled her difficult relationship with the memory of grandmother with grace, far more than I’m capable of.
-I loved the juxtaposition of Noah’s assessment of Ashlyn, and what she thought of herself. To Noah, Ashlyn is just as gorgeous as she was in high school. He tells her “you look the same”, which she doesn’t take as a compliment. But earlier we get a glimpse into Ashlyn’s POV and she refers to herself as boring, ordinary, and plain. We also see, multiple times, how Noah adores Ashlyn’s bossy nature, which she considers a poor character trait. They are such a great example of when opposites attract.
-Speaking further on them being opposites, I enjoyed the timeline jumping back occasionally to give context to Noah and Ashlyn’s current mindset. The gradual reveal of Ashlyn’s crush on Noah was just too cute, I loved that so much. In the flashbacks it’s painfully obvious that these are two teenagers that have crushes on each other, but both are either too immature, or too wrapped up in their personal troubles to see what’s in front of them.
-The holidays play a background role in this story, and not once felt domineering. Yes, this romance takes place over the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, but this is truly a second chance romance between high school crushes first and foremost.
-While there is some spice in this book, this story predominantly focuses on Noah and Ashlyn’s romance. They never had much of a chance to start any kind of relationship when they were teenagers, so the bulk of their romantic progress occurs when they’re adults. There is flirting, shy glances across the room, slight misunderstandings, and finally consummation. Now, just because I said there is “some” spice, doesn’t mean the spice isn’t hot. Like any Heather Guerre book, the spice is really enjoyable.
-I loved seeing little snippets of the side characters that will undoubtedly make up future main characters in the Lake Lenora series. I’m excited to read more about this town and its residents, especially the rest of the Sorenson family.
October 12, 2023
the writing is very accessible. i was able to glide through the pages smoothly without even pausing to figure out the meaning of words or idioms. that's good, but one caveat of that is it was a bit boring. i love the enemies to lovers part when the MCs were in high school, the 'unrequited crush' or the i-thought-u-were-irritated-of-me scenario was also fun to read. however, that's just a small part of the novel. it mainly takes place in the present where the heroine comes back into this small town to sell the house of her dead grandma and there she meets the hero, whom she had a crush, who happens to have ADHD.
and oh, did i mention ADHD? yes. sorry i could be wrong but i didn't feel that certain aspect of the hero's personality was highlighted, apart from him fucking up constantly in high school and being perpetually late in meetings. it could've been a refreshing and illuminating read if the ADHD was more evident. the leads have little to no chemistry, the banters mid, the sexual tension a bit on the lame side.
but i'm not angry i even read this. no strong emotions, just... average. so 3 stars.
and oh, did i mention ADHD? yes. sorry i could be wrong but i didn't feel that certain aspect of the hero's personality was highlighted, apart from him fucking up constantly in high school and being perpetually late in meetings. it could've been a refreshing and illuminating read if the ADHD was more evident. the leads have little to no chemistry, the banters mid, the sexual tension a bit on the lame side.
but i'm not angry i even read this. no strong emotions, just... average. so 3 stars.
June 15, 2024
4.75 stars
I’m a big Heather Guerre fan. I love how she can write so many sub-genres but her books will always have Heat AND Emotion (capital letters intended).
Some of the tropes (misunderstanding conflict) and writing devices (dual timeline/flashbacks) in this book won’t appeal to everyone, but I thought they were done really well. In high school Noah (slacker/skateboarder) thought Ashlyn was a stuck up princess, even though he had a huge crush on her, and the story picks up again 15 years later when Ashlyn returns to their small town after her grandmother passes.
There was drama, there was steam, and the ending had me smiling wide while reading. 🥰 Great book.
I’m a big Heather Guerre fan. I love how she can write so many sub-genres but her books will always have Heat AND Emotion (capital letters intended).
Some of the tropes (misunderstanding conflict) and writing devices (dual timeline/flashbacks) in this book won’t appeal to everyone, but I thought they were done really well. In high school Noah (slacker/skateboarder) thought Ashlyn was a stuck up princess, even though he had a huge crush on her, and the story picks up again 15 years later when Ashlyn returns to their small town after her grandmother passes.
There was drama, there was steam, and the ending had me smiling wide while reading. 🥰 Great book.
December 16, 2022
Gah, I just LOVE this author. All of her books are wonderful. The last book of hers I read was a paranormal shifter vamp romance and this one was a sweet contemporary romance. Sheesh, Guerre just has a way with words and her characters are so relatable and the opposite of annoying. Also this book had some very hot smexy times, but I’d call it a slow burn.
Noah, our H, was so lovable with his ADHD and his needing Ashlyn to spell it out for him. He was a quick study! This book seemed short, but I enjoyed every word and it was just in time for Christmas!
Noah, our H, was so lovable with his ADHD and his needing Ashlyn to spell it out for him. He was a quick study! This book seemed short, but I enjoyed every word and it was just in time for Christmas!
November 25, 2024
“What Could Have Been” by Heather Guerre
5⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“He’d grown and matured in countless ways—but apparently he was still a self-destructive tool when it came to Ashlyn Vandale.”
Ashlyn Vandale reluctantly returns to her hometown of Lenora to settle her grandmother’s estate. In the years since she graduated from high school, Ashlyn hasn’t visited once. She has her reasons for staying away, which she has shared with no one, least of all Noah Sorenson. Noah got into all kinds of trouble in high school, often butting heads with straight-laced Ashlyn. Now, over ten years later, old feelings rush back to the surface once they lock eyes in the local bar. Noah owns a contracting business, and Ashlyn hires him to fix up her grandmother’s home in order to sell. Now that the two are forced to spend time together, they start to realize assumptions made in the past prove false in the present. Will Ashlyn’s limited time in Lenora mend old wounds, or will the past be too difficult to resolve?
-If you only read one contemporary holiday romance, make it this one. Once again Heather Guerre proves that she is an auto-read author; every single book is exemplary. I put off reading this book when it was initially released because I’m not a fan of second chance romances. Joke’s on me, because I ate this trope up in “What Could Have Been”. Perhaps I’m rating this book so highly because I could personally relate to many aspects, and I thought Heather Guerre did a fantastic job navigating such difficult subjects. They write some of the best complex and three-dimensional FMCs I’ve ever encountered in a romance novel.
-Without getting too personal in this review, let’s just say that I understand what it feels like to have a family member adored by their community in the public, but behind closed doors they are a nightmare. I thought Ashlyn handled her difficult relationship with the memory of grandmother with grace, far more than I’m capable of.
-I loved the juxtaposition of Noah’s assessment of Ashlyn, and what she thought of herself. To Noah, Ashlyn is just as gorgeous as she was in high school. He tells her “you look the same”, which she doesn’t take as a compliment. But earlier we get a glimpse into Ashlyn’s POV and she refers to herself as boring, ordinary, and plain. We also see, multiple times, how Noah adores Ashlyn’s bossy nature, which she considers a poor character trait. They are such a great example of when opposites attract.
-Speaking further on them being opposites, I enjoyed the timeline jumping back occasionally to give context to Noah and Ashlyn’s current mindset. The gradual reveal of Ashlyn’s crush on Noah was just too cute, I loved that so much. In the flashbacks it’s painfully obvious that these are two teenagers that have crushes on each other, but both are either too immature, or too wrapped up in their personal troubles to see what’s in front of them.
-The holidays play a background role in this story, and not once felt domineering. Yes, this romance takes place over the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, but this is truly a second chance romance between high school crushes first and foremost.
-While there is some spice in this book, this story predominantly focuses on Noah and Ashlyn’s romance. They never had much of a chance to start any kind of relationship when they were teenagers, so the bulk of their romantic progress occurs when they’re adults. There is flirting, shy glances across the room, slight misunderstandings, and finally consummation. Now, just because I said there is “some” spice, doesn’t mean the spice isn’t hot. Like any Heather Guerre book, the spice is really enjoyable.
-I loved seeing little snippets of the side characters that will undoubtedly make up future main characters in the Lake Lenora series. I’m excited to read more about this town and its residents, especially the rest of the Sorenson family.
5⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“He’d grown and matured in countless ways—but apparently he was still a self-destructive tool when it came to Ashlyn Vandale.”
Ashlyn Vandale reluctantly returns to her hometown of Lenora to settle her grandmother’s estate. In the years since she graduated from high school, Ashlyn hasn’t visited once. She has her reasons for staying away, which she has shared with no one, least of all Noah Sorenson. Noah got into all kinds of trouble in high school, often butting heads with straight-laced Ashlyn. Now, over ten years later, old feelings rush back to the surface once they lock eyes in the local bar. Noah owns a contracting business, and Ashlyn hires him to fix up her grandmother’s home in order to sell. Now that the two are forced to spend time together, they start to realize assumptions made in the past prove false in the present. Will Ashlyn’s limited time in Lenora mend old wounds, or will the past be too difficult to resolve?
-If you only read one contemporary holiday romance, make it this one. Once again Heather Guerre proves that she is an auto-read author; every single book is exemplary. I put off reading this book when it was initially released because I’m not a fan of second chance romances. Joke’s on me, because I ate this trope up in “What Could Have Been”. Perhaps I’m rating this book so highly because I could personally relate to many aspects, and I thought Heather Guerre did a fantastic job navigating such difficult subjects. They write some of the best complex and three-dimensional FMCs I’ve ever encountered in a romance novel.
-Without getting too personal in this review, let’s just say that I understand what it feels like to have a family member adored by their community in the public, but behind closed doors they are a nightmare. I thought Ashlyn handled her difficult relationship with the memory of grandmother with grace, far more than I’m capable of.
-I loved the juxtaposition of Noah’s assessment of Ashlyn, and what she thought of herself. To Noah, Ashlyn is just as gorgeous as she was in high school. He tells her “you look the same”, which she doesn’t take as a compliment. But earlier we get a glimpse into Ashlyn’s POV and she refers to herself as boring, ordinary, and plain. We also see, multiple times, how Noah adores Ashlyn’s bossy nature, which she considers a poor character trait. They are such a great example of when opposites attract.
-Speaking further on them being opposites, I enjoyed the timeline jumping back occasionally to give context to Noah and Ashlyn’s current mindset. The gradual reveal of Ashlyn’s crush on Noah was just too cute, I loved that so much. In the flashbacks it’s painfully obvious that these are two teenagers that have crushes on each other, but both are either too immature, or too wrapped up in their personal troubles to see what’s in front of them.
-The holidays play a background role in this story, and not once felt domineering. Yes, this romance takes place over the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, but this is truly a second chance romance between high school crushes first and foremost.
-While there is some spice in this book, this story predominantly focuses on Noah and Ashlyn’s romance. They never had much of a chance to start any kind of relationship when they were teenagers, so the bulk of their romantic progress occurs when they’re adults. There is flirting, shy glances across the room, slight misunderstandings, and finally consummation. Now, just because I said there is “some” spice, doesn’t mean the spice isn’t hot. Like any Heather Guerre book, the spice is really enjoyable.
-I loved seeing little snippets of the side characters that will undoubtedly make up future main characters in the Lake Lenora series. I’m excited to read more about this town and its residents, especially the rest of the Sorenson family.
December 9, 2022
It’s difficult to explain the magic of Heather Guerre and the power her writing has over me. Every time I read one of her books, it’s like I wish I wrote it, because the words become the thoughts playing out in my head. She tells a story the way you would over coffee with your best friend, no holds barred or hesitation in letting your insecurities out.
When Heather sent out her newsletter earlier this year letting us know she’d be releasing a small-town romance, I wavered back and forth between between HECK YES, GIMME (the sweet part of my brain) and the hesitancy brought on from a hatred of Hallmark movie-vibes (the salty part of my brain). But this is HEATHER GUERRE. I had complete faith that I would love it so I actually made my first ever pre-order.
I was right. I love it.
What Could Have Been is nostalgic and raw. It transports you back to your teenage years of awkwardness and unrequited love, and DC skater shoes. It unravels the harm of preconceived notions. And it feels deeply personal in so many ways.
Trauma from a Catholic upbringing? Check.
Painful family history of hoarding? Check.
Very complicated feelings about where you grew up? Check.
This book was magic and actually put me in a festive mood. At this point I’m pretty sure Heather could write an IKEA instruction manual and I’d read it twice.
Random thoughts:
* Not gonna lie; the townhall meeting scene was incredible. It felt like a mashup of my work meetings, sitting at the dinner table with my uncles, and an episode of Parks and Rec.
* Spot the Preferential Treatment Easter egg?? I did.
* The most unrealistic part of this book is the fact that she was able to get a plumber so quickly. 😂 oh the things you notice when you hit 30.
* What makes caging her in with his arms above her, so freaking hot?! 🔥
* I love that their flirting isn’t full-on “I want to kill him for looking at you” but subtle, honest comments, said with heart. It was sweet without making you want to gag.
* I’m only a little bit jealous that she built my dream home. But I took notes for my future contractor.
When Heather sent out her newsletter earlier this year letting us know she’d be releasing a small-town romance, I wavered back and forth between between HECK YES, GIMME (the sweet part of my brain) and the hesitancy brought on from a hatred of Hallmark movie-vibes (the salty part of my brain). But this is HEATHER GUERRE. I had complete faith that I would love it so I actually made my first ever pre-order.
I was right. I love it.
What Could Have Been is nostalgic and raw. It transports you back to your teenage years of awkwardness and unrequited love, and DC skater shoes. It unravels the harm of preconceived notions. And it feels deeply personal in so many ways.
Trauma from a Catholic upbringing? Check.
Painful family history of hoarding? Check.
Very complicated feelings about where you grew up? Check.
This book was magic and actually put me in a festive mood. At this point I’m pretty sure Heather could write an IKEA instruction manual and I’d read it twice.
Random thoughts:
* Not gonna lie; the townhall meeting scene was incredible. It felt like a mashup of my work meetings, sitting at the dinner table with my uncles, and an episode of Parks and Rec.
* Spot the Preferential Treatment Easter egg?? I did.
* The most unrealistic part of this book is the fact that she was able to get a plumber so quickly. 😂 oh the things you notice when you hit 30.
* What makes caging her in with his arms above her, so freaking hot?! 🔥
* I love that their flirting isn’t full-on “I want to kill him for looking at you” but subtle, honest comments, said with heart. It was sweet without making you want to gag.
* I’m only a little bit jealous that she built my dream home. But I took notes for my future contractor.
November 26, 2023
I had no idea this is technically a holiday romance 🌲 It's also a house reno which means sexy MMC with tools- my weakness!
It's also a second chance told with minimal flashbacks to their high school dumb selves, miscommunication resulting in them not knowing how hard the other was crushing. Fast forward and the successful city career oriented FMC comes back to her small hometown after
a decade to settle her evil grandma's estate and runs back into her high school crush who is now a hot contractor. Yes it sounds like a Hallmark Christmas movie with hot seks but it's much better than that. Fast, low (ish) angst read, well written, engaging secondary character, found family and he wears a tool belt 🥵 My only gripe is that I wanted him to be a little edgier but otherwise it was the perfect palate cleanser after reading Mafia books back to back.
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫/5
🔥🔥/5
Tropes
Found family
Second chance
Pining
CW: toxic relative.
It's also a second chance told with minimal flashbacks to their high school dumb selves, miscommunication resulting in them not knowing how hard the other was crushing. Fast forward and the successful city career oriented FMC comes back to her small hometown after
a decade to settle her evil grandma's estate and runs back into her high school crush who is now a hot contractor. Yes it sounds like a Hallmark Christmas movie with hot seks but it's much better than that. Fast, low (ish) angst read, well written, engaging secondary character, found family and he wears a tool belt 🥵 My only gripe is that I wanted him to be a little edgier but otherwise it was the perfect palate cleanser after reading Mafia books back to back.
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫/5
🔥🔥/5
Tropes
Found family
Second chance
Pining
CW: toxic relative.
February 10, 2023
I could barely put this down! It was angst adjacent—I almost cried a couple of times—and so compelling. It’s also second chance-adjacent: Ashlyn and Noah both had unrequited crushes on each other in high school and they both thought the other person hated them. Lots of miscommunication and missed opportunities! And wouldn’t you know, that’s very much still in play when Ashlyn has to return to her hometown to settle her deceased estranged grandmother’s estate and needs to hire Noah’s company to fix up the house.
This was very made for me in some ways: it’s super Midwestern (welp!) and it’s about returning to your hometown and finding community. Hello, I moved back to my Midwestern hometown two years ago and finding and redeveloping community has been harder than I would have guessed. Ashlyn has an additional layer of having fled Lenora due to her grandmother’s emotional abuse and she hasn’t been back since. It’s about realizing what shapes our sense of home, regardless of the experiences that marred it. I loved watching Ashlyn reconnect with old friends and making new relationships within the town. Plus, there’s the role Noah played then and now and the way his family welcomes her with open arms.
There are some flashbacks but an appropriate amount, unlike some second chance romances. It doesn’t dwell on their past for too long because what’s happening between Noah and Ashlyn in the present is much more interesting. There’s snark and old dynamics and completely misunderstanding what the other person says. And yet they’re still just as drawn to one another. And that chemistry!! Watching them give into their feelings was the best.
A few things tied up too neatly toward the end but those were minor issues, especially in light of the way I devoured this. I loved all of the characters and I'm excited to see it’s the start of a series. There’s some big sequel bait with Noah’s siblings and Ashlyn’s old friends. This is the third book I’ve read by Heather Guerre and it’s easily my favorite.
Characters: Ashlyn is a 34 year old white accountant. Noah is a 34 year old sober white construction company owner with ADHD. This is set in Lenora, WI.
Content notes: panic attack, past emotional abuse by FMC’s grandmother, MMC is recovered alcoholic, recent death estranged grandmother, grandma was a hoarder, MMC has ADHD (diagnosed at 23), past death of FMC’s parents, past death of FMC’s grandfather (aneurysm), FMC’s grandfather was emotionally abusive to grandmother, diet culture, on page sex, alcohol, inebriation (secondary characters), past underage drinking, past marijuana, gender essentialist language, ableist language
This was very made for me in some ways: it’s super Midwestern (welp!) and it’s about returning to your hometown and finding community. Hello, I moved back to my Midwestern hometown two years ago and finding and redeveloping community has been harder than I would have guessed. Ashlyn has an additional layer of having fled Lenora due to her grandmother’s emotional abuse and she hasn’t been back since. It’s about realizing what shapes our sense of home, regardless of the experiences that marred it. I loved watching Ashlyn reconnect with old friends and making new relationships within the town. Plus, there’s the role Noah played then and now and the way his family welcomes her with open arms.
There are some flashbacks but an appropriate amount, unlike some second chance romances. It doesn’t dwell on their past for too long because what’s happening between Noah and Ashlyn in the present is much more interesting. There’s snark and old dynamics and completely misunderstanding what the other person says. And yet they’re still just as drawn to one another. And that chemistry!! Watching them give into their feelings was the best.
A few things tied up too neatly toward the end but those were minor issues, especially in light of the way I devoured this. I loved all of the characters and I'm excited to see it’s the start of a series. There’s some big sequel bait with Noah’s siblings and Ashlyn’s old friends. This is the third book I’ve read by Heather Guerre and it’s easily my favorite.
Characters: Ashlyn is a 34 year old white accountant. Noah is a 34 year old sober white construction company owner with ADHD. This is set in Lenora, WI.
Content notes: panic attack, past emotional abuse by FMC’s grandmother, MMC is recovered alcoholic, recent death estranged grandmother, grandma was a hoarder, MMC has ADHD (diagnosed at 23), past death of FMC’s parents, past death of FMC’s grandfather (aneurysm), FMC’s grandfather was emotionally abusive to grandmother, diet culture, on page sex, alcohol, inebriation (secondary characters), past underage drinking, past marijuana, gender essentialist language, ableist language
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October 27, 2023
What a lovely, little small-town holiday romance.
The tension and pining of the second chance between Ashlyn & Noah was really well done. They have great banter once the walls start coming down, and their growth as they realize their past misconceptions was quite heart-breaking. The romance is slow burn, but once it burns, boy does it burn hot - something Heather Guerre always writes on point!
A bit rushed by the end with a few loose threads that could have used some tidying up, but a great start to a new series that I can't wait to read more of!
Book 1: What Could Have Been - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book 2: What Was Meant To Be - ⭐⭐
The tension and pining of the second chance between Ashlyn & Noah was really well done. They have great banter once the walls start coming down, and their growth as they realize their past misconceptions was quite heart-breaking. The romance is slow burn, but once it burns, boy does it burn hot - something Heather Guerre always writes on point!
A bit rushed by the end with a few loose threads that could have used some tidying up, but a great start to a new series that I can't wait to read more of!
Book 1: What Could Have Been - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book 2: What Was Meant To Be - ⭐⭐
December 15, 2022
Still going strong in my quest of reading everything written by Heather Guerre.
A second-chance love story between Noah, who'd survived depression and addiction and had come out the other side stronger and healthier, and Ashlyn, being strong enough to face her demons and past traumas.
I'm not a fan of "Before and Now" stories. It irritantes me, I don't know why. Maybe I don't click with stories about second chances or when the characters knew each other when they were younger.
Heather keeps writing great female characters and I just realized the consistent pattern in her way of writing chapters, the way she uses repetitive scenarios or places where the chapters begin.
Why 3⭐? I didn't like how the miscommunication was handled, the pace was a bit annoying, and the plot predictable.
Worth mentioning: I loved that little mention of Domovoy, Mikhail Volkov's company (from Preferential Treatment).
A second-chance love story between Noah, who'd survived depression and addiction and had come out the other side stronger and healthier, and Ashlyn, being strong enough to face her demons and past traumas.
I'm not a fan of "Before and Now" stories. It irritantes me, I don't know why. Maybe I don't click with stories about second chances or when the characters knew each other when they were younger.
Heather keeps writing great female characters and I just realized the consistent pattern in her way of writing chapters, the way she uses repetitive scenarios or places where the chapters begin.
Why 3⭐? I didn't like how the miscommunication was handled, the pace was a bit annoying, and the plot predictable.
Worth mentioning: I loved that little mention of Domovoy, Mikhail Volkov's company (from Preferential Treatment).
December 26, 2022
2.5 stars
There were some parts I really liked:
The house renovations done by the FMC and MMC.
The angst
MMC's family
What didn't work for me:
The pretty judgemental/or at least very unsympathetic approach to Hoarding disorder (compulsive hoarding). There are many ways to portray this, and making the person who has an actual disorder out to be a super mean villain just lacks awareness.
The judgmental side of the MMC. The flashbacks to high school weren't necessary since they didn't actually portray or explain why the MMC thought 1,2,3.
For a small town cutesy holiday romance, it didn't work for me because I was distracted by the portrayal of hoarding, the crappy jokes about taking your ADHD meds, and judgmental behavior of both MC's.
There were some parts I really liked:
The house renovations done by the FMC and MMC.
The angst
MMC's family
What didn't work for me:
The pretty judgemental/or at least very unsympathetic approach to Hoarding disorder (compulsive hoarding). There are many ways to portray this, and making the person who has an actual disorder out to be a super mean villain just lacks awareness.
The judgmental side of the MMC. The flashbacks to high school weren't necessary since they didn't actually portray or explain why the MMC thought 1,2,3.
For a small town cutesy holiday romance, it didn't work for me because I was distracted by the portrayal of hoarding, the crappy jokes about taking your ADHD meds, and judgmental behavior of both MC's.
December 12, 2024
This book had my kicking my feet and giggling, idk what crack Guerre puts in her books, but I always love how she builds up her romances in her books, she does a great job at building romantic tension and showing how the characters connect and WHY they like each other. I’m about to re read “cold-hearted” which is one of my favorite contemporary romance novels ever. I also appreciate her Northwoods Midwest representation, as a Minnesotan.
This is the perfect Xmas romance, especially if you love a good “hallmark Esqe” small town Christmas vibe for this time of year, BUT you want a story that’s actually good and not cringe, and has spice.
I do think it’s kind of wild that this book is supposed to take like 15 years after they graduate high school? Like do 8-10 years imo 15 is crazy long.
This definitely has the trope of “big city girl who left small town is forced to return to said small town and reconnect with an old flame” which is like every Hallmark movie, but Guerre does a really good job of making this trope feel fresh, and adds some grit and a bit of traumatic backstories to make the characters feel more relatable and have more depth. The flashback scenes to when they were teens were done well, and the miscommunication that happens at the start is addressed and cleaned up well.
For example, Ash didn’t leave town because she’s “too good for it” she left town to escape a very toxic situation. Noah had issues with school and drugs, but he had undiagnosed ADHD and once he got treatment, was able to turn his life around. I myself have ADHD and I found the representation here fairly good for the most part, I also have to set alarms and reminders for everything lol.
This is the perfect Xmas romance, especially if you love a good “hallmark Esqe” small town Christmas vibe for this time of year, BUT you want a story that’s actually good and not cringe, and has spice.
I do think it’s kind of wild that this book is supposed to take like 15 years after they graduate high school? Like do 8-10 years imo 15 is crazy long.
This definitely has the trope of “big city girl who left small town is forced to return to said small town and reconnect with an old flame” which is like every Hallmark movie, but Guerre does a really good job of making this trope feel fresh, and adds some grit and a bit of traumatic backstories to make the characters feel more relatable and have more depth. The flashback scenes to when they were teens were done well, and the miscommunication that happens at the start is addressed and cleaned up well.
For example, Ash didn’t leave town because she’s “too good for it” she left town to escape a very toxic situation. Noah had issues with school and drugs, but he had undiagnosed ADHD and once he got treatment, was able to turn his life around. I myself have ADHD and I found the representation here fairly good for the most part, I also have to set alarms and reminders for everything lol.
June 6, 2024
1 1/2.
I mean, I wanted something very light, a romance book that could take me away from scrolling instagram, and I wanted a plot like "girl comes back to hometown and meets again her old crush from school, who was a bad boy". It started like that but then it just became so boriiiiing! And they were always just having sex.
This was my first book "big city girl goes (back) to small town with Christmas market", and I believe it might be the last one.
(Does anyone have recommendations for light books with romance that aren't ~ bad~?)
I mean, I wanted something very light, a romance book that could take me away from scrolling instagram, and I wanted a plot like "girl comes back to hometown and meets again her old crush from school, who was a bad boy". It started like that but then it just became so boriiiiing! And they were always just having sex.
This was my first book "big city girl goes (back) to small town with Christmas market", and I believe it might be the last one.
(Does anyone have recommendations for light books with romance that aren't ~ bad~?)
December 21, 2022
Love, written with heart and heat as usual with this author.
June 20, 2023
“still angry at Ashlyn Fucking Vandale for making him feel like such a useless piece of shit when he was a teenager.”
Um maybe because you were? Can’t stand men like this that ridicule women for helping them like she did through tutoring and then someone how make it about themselves again. Like I’m sorry she didn’t worship your stinky feet?
I feel like the guy in this is misogynistic and if they got married she would of been trapped with a monster.
Poor women deserved better and was going through enough.
Um maybe because you were? Can’t stand men like this that ridicule women for helping them like she did through tutoring and then someone how make it about themselves again. Like I’m sorry she didn’t worship your stinky feet?
I feel like the guy in this is misogynistic and if they got married she would of been trapped with a monster.
Poor women deserved better and was going through enough.
March 19, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
November 18, 2025
2.5 stars
I still really enjoy her writing but this felt like it went from 0 to 60 real quick.
The next one doesn’t sound like something I’d enjoy so I’ll stop here with her modern romances, but loved all the fantasy ones
I still really enjoy her writing but this felt like it went from 0 to 60 real quick.
The next one doesn’t sound like something I’d enjoy so I’ll stop here with her modern romances, but loved all the fantasy ones
December 24, 2022
A sweet holiday read. 3.5 Stars
February 23, 2023
Holiday story full of second chances and hometown sweetness with a touch of angst.
#WhatCouldHaveBeen #SecondChances #1sentencereviews
TW: child abuse (past, off-page, emotional not physical), neurodivergence struggles (ADHD), alcoholism and unintentional self-medication (related to undiagnosed neurodivergence), and loneliness and social isolation
#WhatCouldHaveBeen #SecondChances #1sentencereviews
TW: child abuse (past, off-page, emotional not physical), neurodivergence struggles (ADHD), alcoholism and unintentional self-medication (related to undiagnosed neurodivergence), and loneliness and social isolation
December 13, 2022
5/5 stars
I loved this! It had similar vibes to Cold Hearted and Hot Blooded (minus the paranormal) and I loved those two books so that was perfect for me. There are some serious aspects to the story but the author did a good job at still making this a sweet, cozy, holiday read.
It also looks like this might be the start of a series from how it’s named on Amazon. If so, I will definitely read the next one.
I loved this! It had similar vibes to Cold Hearted and Hot Blooded (minus the paranormal) and I loved those two books so that was perfect for me. There are some serious aspects to the story but the author did a good job at still making this a sweet, cozy, holiday read.
It also looks like this might be the start of a series from how it’s named on Amazon. If so, I will definitely read the next one.
September 1, 2024
Small town/contemporary romance isn’t a genre I’d normally go for, but I’ll read anything by Heather Guerre. She got me into alien romances, and now she’s made me love this little town!
As usual, the characters are great, the dialog is funny and realistic, there’s the right amount of conflict, good pacing, and the steamy scenes are hot. Contemporary romance never seems like enough escapism for me, but I felt totally immersed in this story.
A great, cosy, comforting, sexy read.
As usual, the characters are great, the dialog is funny and realistic, there’s the right amount of conflict, good pacing, and the steamy scenes are hot. Contemporary romance never seems like enough escapism for me, but I felt totally immersed in this story.
A great, cosy, comforting, sexy read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2024
Man, I really love Heather Guerre. It is always a worthwhile read with her. This one felt a little lower on the emotional damage scale, which I have no complaints either way about. It's not so heavy on the Christmas/holiday vibes that you could not read it at other times of the year, but it has enough coziness to make it more seasonally enjoyable without punching you in the face with Hallmarkesque features.
I am definitely looking forward to the next in the series.
I am definitely looking forward to the next in the series.
December 14, 2022
Well, this was just the most perfect, sweet Christmas book for the holiday season. Low-stakes pining, second chance romance, I just loved every second spent at Lake Lenora. Heather Guerre has never once disappointed me, and this book is no exception. So cozy!
December 10, 2022
This was too short 😩 MMCs named Noah are doing well this year. @Heather Guerre, please keep writing forever.
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