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Heart of Colton #1
The Way Forward Lib/E
The small town he couldn’t wait to leave is calling him home…
Dax Ellis returns to Colton, Mississippi, a changed man. He traveled the world, earned a fortune, and made a lifetime of memories, but now he longs to put down roots. Time hasn’t been kind to his hometown, and Dax wants to help—if only he can convince everyone he’s not the same petulant boy he used to be. Especially the one woman who has every reason not to trust him.
Librarian Callie Colton cherished summers with her grandparents, in the town her ancestors helped build, in spite of the boy who called her names. Now that Colton is her home, life is quiet until Dax returns…and, along with him, threatening letters on her doorstep. He may still have the power to hurt her, but she’s not the same scared little girl she used to be.
But as the danger escalates, Dax will have to face his past to find a way forward for the relationship they were cheated of once before.
Dax Ellis returns to Colton, Mississippi, a changed man. He traveled the world, earned a fortune, and made a lifetime of memories, but now he longs to put down roots. Time hasn’t been kind to his hometown, and Dax wants to help—if only he can convince everyone he’s not the same petulant boy he used to be. Especially the one woman who has every reason not to trust him.
Librarian Callie Colton cherished summers with her grandparents, in the town her ancestors helped build, in spite of the boy who called her names. Now that Colton is her home, life is quiet until Dax returns…and, along with him, threatening letters on her doorstep. He may still have the power to hurt her, but she’s not the same scared little girl she used to be.
But as the danger escalates, Dax will have to face his past to find a way forward for the relationship they were cheated of once before.
Audio CD
Published October 27, 2020
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204 people want to read
About the author
Eliana West
29 books43 followersStoryteller, adventurer, and diversity advocate. Crafting captivating tales while making a positive impact on the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 20, 2020
(This one was an ARC, so it'll be out in August. MARK YOUR CALENDARS). A beautiful, heartfelt debut. Not really a second chance romance, more like "I'm all grown up now" kinda vibe, which made for some lovely, heart twisty scenes between these two former childhood acquaintances.
There are some sensitive topics covered in this one, but as this is an #Ownvoices story, you'll have to give your trust to the author. Looking forward to whatever Eliana writes next!
There are some sensitive topics covered in this one, but as this is an #Ownvoices story, you'll have to give your trust to the author. Looking forward to whatever Eliana writes next!
February 18, 2021
3.5 stars.
It’s hard for me to buy into a romance where the guy was so racist and bullying the girl as a teenager. The author did a good job of showing how the hero changed and evolved over the years, so I definitely believe that he is a new man. This heroine had nightmares into adulthood so i just don’t see getting over that kind of trauma to true love.
But the author gave it a valiant effort
It’s hard for me to buy into a romance where the guy was so racist and bullying the girl as a teenager. The author did a good job of showing how the hero changed and evolved over the years, so I definitely believe that he is a new man. This heroine had nightmares into adulthood so i just don’t see getting over that kind of trauma to true love.
But the author gave it a valiant effort
March 6, 2023
Ok so I took Savannah's recommendation to read this and, yeah, I dig it.
If I had to tropify this it would be enemies-to-lovers. Although more accurate it would be bully/bullied-to-lovers.
The hero Dax relentlessly and cruelly bullied the heroine when they were younger. He got a Come to Jesus talk from his uncle one day when he hit his bullying high (or rather low, if you will) left home, went into the military service and grew the fuck up.
To his credit when Dax decides to come home and put his time, energy and effort into revitalizing the small dying town that he grew up in that was being held under the heel of his snobby mother, he makes it his priority to make amends and apologize to everyone he was an asshole to when he ran wild as a teen. The heroine wasn't the only person he terrorized with his little entitled shit terrorizing ways. Dax sincerely apologizes, offers his hands of friendship and understanding to the people he dismissed and is committed to rebuilding the community.
The heroine, Callie has been low key doing the same thing. Her family are also pillars of the community, albeit on the black side of town. She had come to stay with her grandparents because her parents are rich, famous and rather neglectful. While her grandparents gave her love and belonging she always wanted. Her efforts to revive the town have been hamstrung by the ineffective city council headed by Dax's mother who hates Callie.
When Dax returns, Callie is rightfully wary and even a little frightened. But his sincere efforts to show that he has changed slowly gains her trust. And then they tiptoe into a full blown romance and partnership to help each other help the town.
For all that there were some unpleasant themes, especially the racial tension and the bullying, this was actually a very sweet story. The villains were small and outnumbered where most of the citizens were decent and the hero rode into town followed by his posse of big, bad, burly BFFs. The romance itself was very much on the sweet side with very much closed door sex scenes. I mean, the door was so closed, at one point I wasn't even sure sex had actually happened. LOL.
My two main criticisms:
1- The heroine really needed to get over her "I don't need help, I can do it all by myself" mentality. I hate it when people who do need help can't accept it. Knee jerk reaction saying it once is ok. The doubling down and insistence is where it gets old.
2- Are there no young people in this town? The only age groups we see are the people in their late 20s-early 30s (Callie, Dax and their friend group) and the a bunch of older generation people. Callie works in the library. She is literally the only employee. Are there no teenagers who need an after school job? Not a single teenager walked through the door to even borrow the Cliff's notes of Romeo and Juliet. Also, she wants to hire someone to work in her book store but can't find anyone. Again, I ask where are the teenagers who need spending money?
Anyway, it was nice small town romance with a great group of side and supporting character and an appealing main couple without too much angst.
If I had to tropify this it would be enemies-to-lovers. Although more accurate it would be bully/bullied-to-lovers.
The hero Dax relentlessly and cruelly bullied the heroine when they were younger. He got a Come to Jesus talk from his uncle one day when he hit his bullying high (or rather low, if you will) left home, went into the military service and grew the fuck up.
To his credit when Dax decides to come home and put his time, energy and effort into revitalizing the small dying town that he grew up in that was being held under the heel of his snobby mother, he makes it his priority to make amends and apologize to everyone he was an asshole to when he ran wild as a teen. The heroine wasn't the only person he terrorized with his little entitled shit terrorizing ways. Dax sincerely apologizes, offers his hands of friendship and understanding to the people he dismissed and is committed to rebuilding the community.
The heroine, Callie has been low key doing the same thing. Her family are also pillars of the community, albeit on the black side of town. She had come to stay with her grandparents because her parents are rich, famous and rather neglectful. While her grandparents gave her love and belonging she always wanted. Her efforts to revive the town have been hamstrung by the ineffective city council headed by Dax's mother who hates Callie.
When Dax returns, Callie is rightfully wary and even a little frightened. But his sincere efforts to show that he has changed slowly gains her trust. And then they tiptoe into a full blown romance and partnership to help each other help the town.
For all that there were some unpleasant themes, especially the racial tension and the bullying, this was actually a very sweet story. The villains were small and outnumbered where most of the citizens were decent and the hero rode into town followed by his posse of big, bad, burly BFFs. The romance itself was very much on the sweet side with very much closed door sex scenes. I mean, the door was so closed, at one point I wasn't even sure sex had actually happened. LOL.
My two main criticisms:
1- The heroine really needed to get over her "I don't need help, I can do it all by myself" mentality. I hate it when people who do need help can't accept it. Knee jerk reaction saying it once is ok. The doubling down and insistence is where it gets old.
2- Are there no young people in this town? The only age groups we see are the people in their late 20s-early 30s (Callie, Dax and their friend group) and the a bunch of older generation people. Callie works in the library. She is literally the only employee. Are there no teenagers who need an after school job? Not a single teenager walked through the door to even borrow the Cliff's notes of Romeo and Juliet. Also, she wants to hire someone to work in her book store but can't find anyone. Again, I ask where are the teenagers who need spending money?
Anyway, it was nice small town romance with a great group of side and supporting character and an appealing main couple without too much angst.
August 25, 2020
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
3.5 stars.
A sweet story with very troubling themes, “The Way Forward”, by Eliana West (Tule Publishing), features a now honorable hero seeking penance and redemption after having been a racist and a bully as a boy.
Rather than being captivated by Dax’s changes as an adult, I was disgusted that little boys like Dax are still being brought up with such hatred in the supposedly idyllic American small-town setting.
But Dax is such a honest hero, I loved him for it, for the humbleness, too, although I thought he fully deserved the self-inflicted walk of public shame.
I was drawn in to the story with its twist on the idyllic small-town atmosphere, the hope brought by the renewal/rebirth efforts, and the cast of characters the author introduced and the way they rallied to a common goal.
Even if some characters (Presley, for example) seemed too caricatural to be believable, the way the plotline developed and the writing style kept the story interesting until the end.
3.5 stars.
A sweet story with very troubling themes, “The Way Forward”, by Eliana West (Tule Publishing), features a now honorable hero seeking penance and redemption after having been a racist and a bully as a boy.
Rather than being captivated by Dax’s changes as an adult, I was disgusted that little boys like Dax are still being brought up with such hatred in the supposedly idyllic American small-town setting.
But Dax is such a honest hero, I loved him for it, for the humbleness, too, although I thought he fully deserved the self-inflicted walk of public shame.
I was drawn in to the story with its twist on the idyllic small-town atmosphere, the hope brought by the renewal/rebirth efforts, and the cast of characters the author introduced and the way they rallied to a common goal.
Even if some characters (Presley, for example) seemed too caricatural to be believable, the way the plotline developed and the writing style kept the story interesting until the end.
August 19, 2020
Settle in folks, because I have a lot to unpack on this one. The short and sweet review would say this is a wonderful story that needs some editing help, but I’ll dive in deeper.
I always try to start with the good. And honestly, there is a lot that is good with this story. I enjoyed the characters, the good and bad. They are fleshed out pretty well and had me rooting for them, or hating them if that’s what the character called for. I loved the slow unfolding of the relationship between Dax and Callie. There was a bit of two steps forward and one step back, but that is what was expected with their past. Parts of this story made me feel downright icky, and they were supposed to. Racism isn’t unicorns and rainbows, after all. The author does a phenomenal job of portraying the racism in this small southern town. The people who perpetrate the racism, and those that have turned a blind eye to the hatred while not participating. Those who have educated themselves and regret the things they’ve done, and those who still think they are superior to others. It’s not a good look on anyone, and it casts a pall on the town. Seriously, I often had knots in my stomach. That I was so emotionally effected tells me the author has writing chops. (I guess I should actually add a trigger warning here. It gets intense and there are awful things said and done in this story.)
Although I love the storyline, it also bothered me. Callie and Dax aren’t just enemies, Dax was exceptionally cruel to Callie growing up. There is still a part of me that just doesn’t believe she could ever come to an acceptance to some of the things Dax did, no matter how much he’s changed. Since the chemistry between the two of them is great, it’s easier to forget once in a while that he was a terrible bully as a child.
Here’s my main issue with this story, which I don’t think will come as a surprise to those who regularly read my reviews, the timeline. Oh this poor timeline. While nothing about the timeline will make it so the reader doesn’t understand what is happening, it will have you scratching your head. There’s one point that Dax asks Callie for coffee, but that’s somehow never followed through with. More than once a character references “I haven’t seen her since” or “he hasn’t been here since”, but the sentence is not true and they characters HAD seen each other or been to the place. The romance in this story is behind closed doors for the most part and I swear, the characters get intimate (behind closed doors means I don’t know to what extent) and later it’s like it never happened.
From what I can see, this is this author’s first published work. Or at least, the first work listed on her Goodreads page at this point. She has so much potential. Ya’ll know how much I hate inconsistencies in a storyline, yet I still want to read the next book in this series. Her characters really drew me in. In my opinion, her editorial staff failed her. The ARC for this book was sent out 11 days before publication, so I can only imagine it’s been gone over a time or two. It actually makes me angry that this author seems to have been mishandled which can, in effect, end up holding her writing back in the long run.
What I’m trying to say is, although problematic, I’m still going to recommend this book. I think the author has raw talent and will come into her own very quickly. I want her to succeed, I think she deserves to succeed. I think she has a lot of great stories to tell and I want her to be able to share them with the public. And I also want her editor and/or publisher to pay a bit more attention instead of leaving a talented author hanging.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
I always try to start with the good. And honestly, there is a lot that is good with this story. I enjoyed the characters, the good and bad. They are fleshed out pretty well and had me rooting for them, or hating them if that’s what the character called for. I loved the slow unfolding of the relationship between Dax and Callie. There was a bit of two steps forward and one step back, but that is what was expected with their past. Parts of this story made me feel downright icky, and they were supposed to. Racism isn’t unicorns and rainbows, after all. The author does a phenomenal job of portraying the racism in this small southern town. The people who perpetrate the racism, and those that have turned a blind eye to the hatred while not participating. Those who have educated themselves and regret the things they’ve done, and those who still think they are superior to others. It’s not a good look on anyone, and it casts a pall on the town. Seriously, I often had knots in my stomach. That I was so emotionally effected tells me the author has writing chops. (I guess I should actually add a trigger warning here. It gets intense and there are awful things said and done in this story.)
Although I love the storyline, it also bothered me. Callie and Dax aren’t just enemies, Dax was exceptionally cruel to Callie growing up. There is still a part of me that just doesn’t believe she could ever come to an acceptance to some of the things Dax did, no matter how much he’s changed. Since the chemistry between the two of them is great, it’s easier to forget once in a while that he was a terrible bully as a child.
Here’s my main issue with this story, which I don’t think will come as a surprise to those who regularly read my reviews, the timeline. Oh this poor timeline. While nothing about the timeline will make it so the reader doesn’t understand what is happening, it will have you scratching your head. There’s one point that Dax asks Callie for coffee, but that’s somehow never followed through with. More than once a character references “I haven’t seen her since” or “he hasn’t been here since”, but the sentence is not true and they characters HAD seen each other or been to the place. The romance in this story is behind closed doors for the most part and I swear, the characters get intimate (behind closed doors means I don’t know to what extent) and later it’s like it never happened.
From what I can see, this is this author’s first published work. Or at least, the first work listed on her Goodreads page at this point. She has so much potential. Ya’ll know how much I hate inconsistencies in a storyline, yet I still want to read the next book in this series. Her characters really drew me in. In my opinion, her editorial staff failed her. The ARC for this book was sent out 11 days before publication, so I can only imagine it’s been gone over a time or two. It actually makes me angry that this author seems to have been mishandled which can, in effect, end up holding her writing back in the long run.
What I’m trying to say is, although problematic, I’m still going to recommend this book. I think the author has raw talent and will come into her own very quickly. I want her to succeed, I think she deserves to succeed. I think she has a lot of great stories to tell and I want her to be able to share them with the public. And I also want her editor and/or publisher to pay a bit more attention instead of leaving a talented author hanging.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
March 3, 2022
3.5⭐️In this book, the small town of Colton, Mississippi is showcased. In every significant aspect, the ugliness, the destructive effects of prejudice and bigotry, the betrayals, cruelties and small-mindedness that are prevalent among many of the townspeople in Colton is laid bare.
The book’s focus is on Dax and Callie. Dax is all grown up, and after being discharged from the army, decides to move back to Colton. He knows, however, that his way back into Colton society will be extremely difficult because as a boy, he was mean-spirited and a bully who wreaked havoc in the town. Consequently, there is much for which Dax believes he must atone; however, Dax’s consummate challenge is to seek forgiveness from Callie, a biracial woman who he had bullied and had been viciously cruel toward in the past. Now though, he makes it his mission to show Callie as well as the residents of Colton that he has changed for the better.
Despite all of this underlying turmoil, Dax is thrown off guard as he realizes that he is attracted to Callie for several reasons, her innate kindness being paramount among them. On the other hand, Callie has no way to attest to Dax’s character as an adult, and more importantly, she doesn’t know whether she is capable of forgiving him. Despite Callie’s misgivings, she admits to herself that Dax has grown to be a very handsome man, and much to her chagrin, she is attracted to him.
This is a story about redemption. It’s about self-discovery. It’s about how the willingness to forgive can revive the spirit of a town and give hope to those who have felt powerless over the years living in Colton. Then, there is also the power of humility, reconciliation and love that ultimately bring about meaningful change and much needed healing to Colton. What I found most impressive about this book is the numerous ways in which the author suffuses the story with undercurrents of the indomitable spirit of Colton’s former slaves. The black townspeoples’ pride in their achievements, their courage and their strength come through loud and clear.
Typically, I shy away from romance books with this plot line, but I decided to step out of my comfort zone. I’m glad I read this book written by an author who is new-to-me. It is an enjoyable read even though it’s predictable in many ways and perhaps a little too coincidental in other ways. Nevertheless, the villains who are hateful and loathsome, coupled with some unexpected surprises really add dimension to the story. I considered a higher rating, but there were too many editing issues for me to ignore.
The book’s focus is on Dax and Callie. Dax is all grown up, and after being discharged from the army, decides to move back to Colton. He knows, however, that his way back into Colton society will be extremely difficult because as a boy, he was mean-spirited and a bully who wreaked havoc in the town. Consequently, there is much for which Dax believes he must atone; however, Dax’s consummate challenge is to seek forgiveness from Callie, a biracial woman who he had bullied and had been viciously cruel toward in the past. Now though, he makes it his mission to show Callie as well as the residents of Colton that he has changed for the better.
Despite all of this underlying turmoil, Dax is thrown off guard as he realizes that he is attracted to Callie for several reasons, her innate kindness being paramount among them. On the other hand, Callie has no way to attest to Dax’s character as an adult, and more importantly, she doesn’t know whether she is capable of forgiving him. Despite Callie’s misgivings, she admits to herself that Dax has grown to be a very handsome man, and much to her chagrin, she is attracted to him.
This is a story about redemption. It’s about self-discovery. It’s about how the willingness to forgive can revive the spirit of a town and give hope to those who have felt powerless over the years living in Colton. Then, there is also the power of humility, reconciliation and love that ultimately bring about meaningful change and much needed healing to Colton. What I found most impressive about this book is the numerous ways in which the author suffuses the story with undercurrents of the indomitable spirit of Colton’s former slaves. The black townspeoples’ pride in their achievements, their courage and their strength come through loud and clear.
Typically, I shy away from romance books with this plot line, but I decided to step out of my comfort zone. I’m glad I read this book written by an author who is new-to-me. It is an enjoyable read even though it’s predictable in many ways and perhaps a little too coincidental in other ways. Nevertheless, the villains who are hateful and loathsome, coupled with some unexpected surprises really add dimension to the story. I considered a higher rating, but there were too many editing issues for me to ignore.
January 11, 2021
Love Leads The Way Forward
This is a sweet, interracial romance novel set in Colton, Mississippi. Dax, a white man and Callie Colton, an interracial woman, both returned to Colton to help the town. Both were wealthy and willing to use their money for the town's benefit. Dax was born in Colton and grew up as the town bully. Callie spent summers in Colton with her grandparents and was the target of Dax's bullying.
Their love for Colton brought them back to Colton to help the town progress. Colton is like a lot of small towns in the South, separated because of the color of resident's skin, and slowly dying. Dax had been gone for over thirteen years and has grown into a man determined to make up for his past mistakes. His mother was the Grand Dame of the town and as racist as they come.
Dax and Callie realized that they loved each other and the town. The barriers were greater than they realized. Their sexual attraction was steamy without being graphic or descriptive. There were secrets that had to be revealed before they could have a life together and help the town grow. Why did Callie's mother, a black woman, married to a famous white producer, hate the town so much but allowed her daughter to spend summers with her parents? Why did Dax's mother make such a difference in Dax and his brother, Reid? It was more than the prejudice found in a lot of white women raised in the South.
There were people in the town ready to overcome the prejudice in the town - both black and white. Callie's black relatives were pillars of the black community. Dax's friends he met while in service came to Colton at Dax's request to help him. They all decided to move there. Dax made peace with his brother who still has a secret to uncover.
I can't wait to read more about Callie's and Dax's friends and family in an ongoing saga. Will they find love and a HEA as did Callie and Dax?
This is a sweet, interracial romance novel set in Colton, Mississippi. Dax, a white man and Callie Colton, an interracial woman, both returned to Colton to help the town. Both were wealthy and willing to use their money for the town's benefit. Dax was born in Colton and grew up as the town bully. Callie spent summers in Colton with her grandparents and was the target of Dax's bullying.
Their love for Colton brought them back to Colton to help the town progress. Colton is like a lot of small towns in the South, separated because of the color of resident's skin, and slowly dying. Dax had been gone for over thirteen years and has grown into a man determined to make up for his past mistakes. His mother was the Grand Dame of the town and as racist as they come.
Dax and Callie realized that they loved each other and the town. The barriers were greater than they realized. Their sexual attraction was steamy without being graphic or descriptive. There were secrets that had to be revealed before they could have a life together and help the town grow. Why did Callie's mother, a black woman, married to a famous white producer, hate the town so much but allowed her daughter to spend summers with her parents? Why did Dax's mother make such a difference in Dax and his brother, Reid? It was more than the prejudice found in a lot of white women raised in the South.
There were people in the town ready to overcome the prejudice in the town - both black and white. Callie's black relatives were pillars of the black community. Dax's friends he met while in service came to Colton at Dax's request to help him. They all decided to move there. Dax made peace with his brother who still has a secret to uncover.
I can't wait to read more about Callie's and Dax's friends and family in an ongoing saga. Will they find love and a HEA as did Callie and Dax?
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March 6, 2023I'm going to do something I haven't done in a very long time before even finishing this novel.
GET THIS BOOK! Ignore the slight cheesiness of the cover and trust the contents. Its SOLID, a REAL obstacle that makes sense without being insurmountable and great character development. Yes, it deals with race, but the whole book does in a backdrop way overall and its believable for me since not only do I live in a smaller town (now) but I have too much family from the south to deny the possibilities.
Yes, she's fair, but she's biracial and for once, the heroine isn't walking around flushing and blushing every other page. And to be fair, with the current population of the U.S., biracial women need representation too! The fight is to get us ALL represented.
Hero is looking for redemption in such a real and honest way you both feel bad for him but you totally get the reason he's got to make amends. He's alpha without being the least bit asshole. Humble but absolutely knows when to step up. I haven't had to spend half the time mumbling to myself and thats huge LOL.
So yeah, I'm halfway through and you're seeing me recommending a book. Go for it!
GET THIS BOOK! Ignore the slight cheesiness of the cover and trust the contents. Its SOLID, a REAL obstacle that makes sense without being insurmountable and great character development. Yes, it deals with race, but the whole book does in a backdrop way overall and its believable for me since not only do I live in a smaller town (now) but I have too much family from the south to deny the possibilities.
Yes, she's fair, but she's biracial and for once, the heroine isn't walking around flushing and blushing every other page. And to be fair, with the current population of the U.S., biracial women need representation too! The fight is to get us ALL represented.
Hero is looking for redemption in such a real and honest way you both feel bad for him but you totally get the reason he's got to make amends. He's alpha without being the least bit asshole. Humble but absolutely knows when to step up. I haven't had to spend half the time mumbling to myself and thats huge LOL.
So yeah, I'm halfway through and you're seeing me recommending a book. Go for it!
December 20, 2021
Not worth getting into
I really wanted this book to be good, but it’s unbelievable that Callie who was bullied most of her childhood by Dax would fall in love with him. Who cares if he was now handsome and trying to make amends? He was physically abusive and tortured her for years. Not to mention was racist. How practical is it to fall in love with their racist, abusive bully?
I really wanted this book to be good, but it’s unbelievable that Callie who was bullied most of her childhood by Dax would fall in love with him. Who cares if he was now handsome and trying to make amends? He was physically abusive and tortured her for years. Not to mention was racist. How practical is it to fall in love with their racist, abusive bully?
November 6, 2020
This was ok. I believe this is the authors first book and it has tremendous potential but there are major editing issues, timeline issues, and some cheesy moments and interactions that just made me cringe. The writing style is making it difficult for me to engage with the story. I just struggled to keep reading it.
The author tackles racism in a really impactful way. I liked that about the story. It sheds light on some dark truths that are still very much alive in America.
If this author writes another book I would consider reading it.
The author tackles racism in a really impactful way. I liked that about the story. It sheds light on some dark truths that are still very much alive in America.
If this author writes another book I would consider reading it.
August 29, 2020
The Way Forward by Eliana West.
The small town he couldn’t wait to leave is calling him home…
Dax Ellis returns to Colton, Mississippi, a changed man. He traveled the world, earned a fortune, and made a lifetime of memories, but now he longs to put down roots. Time hasn’t been kind to his hometown, and Dax wants to help—if only he can convince everyone he’s not the same petulant boy he used to be. Especially the one woman who has every reason not to trust him.
Librarian Callie Colton cherished summers with her grandparents, in the town her ancestors helped build, in spite of the boy who called her names. Now that Colton is her home, life is quiet until Dax returns…and, along with him, ugly letters on her doorstep. He may still have the power to hurt her, but she’s not the same scared little girl she used to be.
And soon Dax will have to face his past to find a way forward for the relationship they were cheated of once before.
This is Callie Colton and Dax Ellis's story.
She was the one to take a step back, her eyes locked onto him, wide with anxiety.
“The next meeting is Tuesday night.
“Book club.”
Time stood still in Colton, Mississippi, or at least it seemed that way every time Dax Ellis came back to visit. Nothing in his hometown had changed since he left. Like many small towns in the South, Colton was a place where folks were afraid of letting go of the past and fearful of moving forward into an uncertain future. The only thing that changed over time was the worn welcome sign showing the population, which only went down.
Today it went up by one.
He rolled down his window taking in the cool morning air. His gaze swept over the small patch of green with a gazebo at its center. Absolem Madden Colton Park was the centerpiece of Colton’s downtown. His mouth began to water as he drove by the Catfish Café. Sometimes the fact that nothing changed was a good thing. He’d have to stop in for some of Tillie’s pecan pie if she’d let him in the door. Hopefully, it tasted as good as he remembered. The barbershop pole continued its lazy twirl on one side of the town square while the neon lights for Walker’s Pharmacy flickered a dull orange glow. The K blinked twice and went dark just as he drove past. Seven years since he came home for his father’s funeral, and the town had faded even further into obscurity since then. He’d come back to do his best to make sure it didn’t disappear altogether.
The Way Forward by Eliana West is a 3 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Eliana's Books with Tule:
The Way Forward
Heart of Colton
The small town he couldn’t wait to leave is calling him home…
Dax Ellis returns to Colton, Mississippi, a changed man. He traveled the world, earned a fortune, and made a lifetime of memories, but now he longs to put down roots. Time hasn’t been kind to his hometown, and Dax wants to help—if only he can convince everyone he’s not the same petulant boy he used to be. Especially the one woman who has every reason not to trust him.
Librarian Callie Colton cherished summers with her grandparents, in the town her ancestors helped build, in spite of the boy who called her names. Now that Colton is her home, life is quiet until Dax returns…and, along with him, ugly letters on her doorstep. He may still have the power to hurt her, but she’s not the same scared little girl she used to be.
And soon Dax will have to face his past to find a way forward for the relationship they were cheated of once before.
This is Callie Colton and Dax Ellis's story.
She was the one to take a step back, her eyes locked onto him, wide with anxiety.
“The next meeting is Tuesday night.
“Book club.”
Time stood still in Colton, Mississippi, or at least it seemed that way every time Dax Ellis came back to visit. Nothing in his hometown had changed since he left. Like many small towns in the South, Colton was a place where folks were afraid of letting go of the past and fearful of moving forward into an uncertain future. The only thing that changed over time was the worn welcome sign showing the population, which only went down.
Today it went up by one.
He rolled down his window taking in the cool morning air. His gaze swept over the small patch of green with a gazebo at its center. Absolem Madden Colton Park was the centerpiece of Colton’s downtown. His mouth began to water as he drove by the Catfish Café. Sometimes the fact that nothing changed was a good thing. He’d have to stop in for some of Tillie’s pecan pie if she’d let him in the door. Hopefully, it tasted as good as he remembered. The barbershop pole continued its lazy twirl on one side of the town square while the neon lights for Walker’s Pharmacy flickered a dull orange glow. The K blinked twice and went dark just as he drove past. Seven years since he came home for his father’s funeral, and the town had faded even further into obscurity since then. He’d come back to do his best to make sure it didn’t disappear altogether.
The Way Forward by Eliana West is a 3 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Eliana's Books with Tule:
The Way Forward
Heart of Colton
August 26, 2020
This book was an excellent read. The story is told in an amazing way, I was caught in the story and it was very difficult to put down. I am glad that I came across this author and having the chance to read her debut novel. the story was very touching and it made me feel as if I were there in that town of Colton.
It is the story of Callie and Dax in Colton a small town in the Mississippi, where one part of the town is for some of the people and the other part of town is for the other people. It's a story of deception, redemption and survival, how there is a time for change. The characters in the story are well put together and several of them are very loveable! As the story unravels, history starts speaking, hidden truths also touch the surface. You can closely follow the storytelling and it gets you captured. How some people can be cruel and full of hatred. Where the past history is hard for some people to accept and understand that things have changed. You will also see how Callie strives for her beliefs and at the same time needs to get over her past trauma. There is also Dax that wants to show that he has really changed. The story goes on and you understand that people want to make positive changes so, that the town can survive. This is easier said than done in this very complicated small town. This story also has it's secrets, mysteries and also the time for making things better and right. The author puts it all so well through her writing also opens the eyes of the reader of problems in between different people because they aren't of the same background or culture The horrible times of segregation, where people were not able to feel equal and treated terribly bad. How it was able to continue in some people's way of living and acting. When there comes the moment when a person simply can't see the madness in how she acts.
It's also so nice to see how so many nice people get togther to make their town a better place with hopes for the future. The story did take some twists and turns and there were things coming out I hadn't expected. The truth came forward and it helped build the main characters and their roles of being the people that the town needed to come back to life again!
I can certainly recommend this read and I'm grateful to have been able to read this book, my thanks to the author for writing this wonderful book!
Charlotte N
It is the story of Callie and Dax in Colton a small town in the Mississippi, where one part of the town is for some of the people and the other part of town is for the other people. It's a story of deception, redemption and survival, how there is a time for change. The characters in the story are well put together and several of them are very loveable! As the story unravels, history starts speaking, hidden truths also touch the surface. You can closely follow the storytelling and it gets you captured. How some people can be cruel and full of hatred. Where the past history is hard for some people to accept and understand that things have changed. You will also see how Callie strives for her beliefs and at the same time needs to get over her past trauma. There is also Dax that wants to show that he has really changed. The story goes on and you understand that people want to make positive changes so, that the town can survive. This is easier said than done in this very complicated small town. This story also has it's secrets, mysteries and also the time for making things better and right. The author puts it all so well through her writing also opens the eyes of the reader of problems in between different people because they aren't of the same background or culture The horrible times of segregation, where people were not able to feel equal and treated terribly bad. How it was able to continue in some people's way of living and acting. When there comes the moment when a person simply can't see the madness in how she acts.
It's also so nice to see how so many nice people get togther to make their town a better place with hopes for the future. The story did take some twists and turns and there were things coming out I hadn't expected. The truth came forward and it helped build the main characters and their roles of being the people that the town needed to come back to life again!
I can certainly recommend this read and I'm grateful to have been able to read this book, my thanks to the author for writing this wonderful book!
Charlotte N
February 7, 2021
Old Hurts and New Beginnings (An audio review)
Although Callie is well into adulthood, she’s still haunted by the tormenting and bullying she endured first as a child, and then young woman growing up in Colton, Mississippi. Although numerous kids in the town harassed her, Dax Ellis was her true tormentor. Just hearing about the stories horrified me and, at times, made me want to stop the audio. Gut-churning stuff. I’d been bullied growing up, but nothing like what Callie endured. And all because of her mixed-race heritage.
So when Dax Ellis returns to town, Callie plans to give him a wide berth.
Dax has changed. Years away from Colton, serving in the army, has revealed to him how truly soul-crushing his behavior must have been to Callie. He’s learned empathy from a beloved uncle, and is ready to confront those in his family who still believe themselves better than everyone else. His mother might not be mayor of Colton, but she has her finger in every pie, and those who don’t kowtow to her often find themselves on the losing end of whatever battle she starts.
Callie has suffered under the wrath of Dax’s mother, but her firm belief in the town of Colton has kept her going. Now Dax is back, and she has to decide if his contrition is sincere. And if she can ever trust him again.
Not going to lie, there were parts of this audio that were hard to listen to. But I’m so glad I forged ahead and finished it. I love Ms. West’s storytelling abilities. I was spellbound, and wanting things to end well for Callie and Dax. There were also several secondary characters I fell in love with, including Callie’s best friend. Glad to see this is only book one in the series and there are more to come.
Finally I’ll mention Zuzu Robinson. I’m from Canada, so have minimal exposure to the southern United States, but the accent is unmistakable. Ms. Robinson did a great job and her work was a pleasure to listen to. Can’t wait for the next book.
Although Callie is well into adulthood, she’s still haunted by the tormenting and bullying she endured first as a child, and then young woman growing up in Colton, Mississippi. Although numerous kids in the town harassed her, Dax Ellis was her true tormentor. Just hearing about the stories horrified me and, at times, made me want to stop the audio. Gut-churning stuff. I’d been bullied growing up, but nothing like what Callie endured. And all because of her mixed-race heritage.
So when Dax Ellis returns to town, Callie plans to give him a wide berth.
Dax has changed. Years away from Colton, serving in the army, has revealed to him how truly soul-crushing his behavior must have been to Callie. He’s learned empathy from a beloved uncle, and is ready to confront those in his family who still believe themselves better than everyone else. His mother might not be mayor of Colton, but she has her finger in every pie, and those who don’t kowtow to her often find themselves on the losing end of whatever battle she starts.
Callie has suffered under the wrath of Dax’s mother, but her firm belief in the town of Colton has kept her going. Now Dax is back, and she has to decide if his contrition is sincere. And if she can ever trust him again.
Not going to lie, there were parts of this audio that were hard to listen to. But I’m so glad I forged ahead and finished it. I love Ms. West’s storytelling abilities. I was spellbound, and wanting things to end well for Callie and Dax. There were also several secondary characters I fell in love with, including Callie’s best friend. Glad to see this is only book one in the series and there are more to come.
Finally I’ll mention Zuzu Robinson. I’m from Canada, so have minimal exposure to the southern United States, but the accent is unmistakable. Ms. Robinson did a great job and her work was a pleasure to listen to. Can’t wait for the next book.
July 17, 2025
Painfully good listen - Callie is shocked when her childhood bully returns to town. Dax terrorized young Callie, treating her with an encouraged menace that gives her nightmares to this day. But Dax is a changed man, and does all he can to atone for his ill treatment of her and others in the town. He falls hard for Callie, to the dismay of his doting mother and the woman she would have him wed. Her mindset is still stuck in bygone times that will see her lose her son.
This was a very well-written story, the characters and their experiences vivid as the narrator brought them to life. It was difficult to hear the meanness in young Dax and his mother as an elder, but I know it was necessary for the plot. So much dislike and vitriol against a child because he didn't want to be pushed from his mother's side like his brother. Secrets that put his parents into a bad light are revealed, painting a picture that some would say makes his mother a victim as well. But Dorothy is no one's victim, her air of superiority worn like a crown of gold. She got what she deserved in the end, as well as her partners in crime. Would that appearances not have been so important, a lot of hurt and pain could have been avoided.
This is a great tale, with likeable characters mostly and a great plot. I look forward to reading / listening to more in this series. Mae and Jacob will surely make quite a combustible pair compared to their more staid friends.
This was a very well-written story, the characters and their experiences vivid as the narrator brought them to life. It was difficult to hear the meanness in young Dax and his mother as an elder, but I know it was necessary for the plot. So much dislike and vitriol against a child because he didn't want to be pushed from his mother's side like his brother. Secrets that put his parents into a bad light are revealed, painting a picture that some would say makes his mother a victim as well. But Dorothy is no one's victim, her air of superiority worn like a crown of gold. She got what she deserved in the end, as well as her partners in crime. Would that appearances not have been so important, a lot of hurt and pain could have been avoided.
This is a great tale, with likeable characters mostly and a great plot. I look forward to reading / listening to more in this series. Mae and Jacob will surely make quite a combustible pair compared to their more staid friends.
August 31, 2020
The Way Forward is the debut novel by Elaina West and the first in The Heart of Colton series. It is a wonderful story of love overcoming hate. She brings light to troubles we as a society have faced in the past and are still facing today with racism.
Dax Ellis was not a very nice kid growing up in fact he was a bully to everyone in Colton, especially Callie Colton. Now he is all grown up and a different person than he was when he left Colton seven years ago. He now wants to put down roots and help rebuild the town he called home. The only problem is that he will have to prove to everyone that he is not the same bully he was growing up. Will they accept him and his apologies.
Callie Colton loved the summers she spent with her grandparents. She is now the town librarian and carrying on her grandparents legacy. That is until Dax returns along with the nightmares. Now their are even threatening letters. All Dax wants to do is apologize for what he did in the past. Can she accept his apology and the fact that he has changed? He is also falling for her, can he go as far as hoping she will feel the same way......
I would definitely recommend this book. Once you read it you will become a fan of this new Author. I know I am, and I can't wait for next book in The Heart of Colton series.
I received a ARC of this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dax Ellis was not a very nice kid growing up in fact he was a bully to everyone in Colton, especially Callie Colton. Now he is all grown up and a different person than he was when he left Colton seven years ago. He now wants to put down roots and help rebuild the town he called home. The only problem is that he will have to prove to everyone that he is not the same bully he was growing up. Will they accept him and his apologies.
Callie Colton loved the summers she spent with her grandparents. She is now the town librarian and carrying on her grandparents legacy. That is until Dax returns along with the nightmares. Now their are even threatening letters. All Dax wants to do is apologize for what he did in the past. Can she accept his apology and the fact that he has changed? He is also falling for her, can he go as far as hoping she will feel the same way......
I would definitely recommend this book. Once you read it you will become a fan of this new Author. I know I am, and I can't wait for next book in The Heart of Colton series.
I received a ARC of this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 25, 2020
The Way Forward (Heart of Colton #1) by Eliana West is a heartfelt story of life changing for the better in a small town. That is not to say that there is not resistance to this. The problem is not that so many people in the town had the prejudices or bias of the psychopath because they didn’t. It was that nothing had been done to stop her until Dax returned home. Sadly, this may be the case for real sometimes. I hope not, I live in a small Southern town and have to believe that the people here would stand up sooner rather than later. The conclusion bothered me a little because the villain was mentally disturbed, not just mean. It was difficult for me to see how jail time would help her. Much more serious intervention is needed.
As for the romance in this story I like Dax, the different man who has returned and also Callie. I don’t think I could ever feel for him as Callie did no matter how many apologies he made. In that respect, it is romance based on a past bulling childhood. Forgiveness I can see, love not so much. Still it is well-written with character insight that stretched my imagination.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As for the romance in this story I like Dax, the different man who has returned and also Callie. I don’t think I could ever feel for him as Callie did no matter how many apologies he made. In that respect, it is romance based on a past bulling childhood. Forgiveness I can see, love not so much. Still it is well-written with character insight that stretched my imagination.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 4, 2021
3.00 Stars. (BW/WM). Audible audiobook read by Zuzu Robinson. Repentant bully. Forgiving heroine. The hero, Dax Ellis, is the youngest son of the wealthy and influential Ellis family; as a youngster, Dax was given carte blanche to disrespect, deface and terrorize any and all of Colton's citizenry especially the heroine, Callie Colton and businesses owned by her family. Callie's parents are wealthy and she became a successful author. When her grandparents died, Callie moved back to Colton and assumed proprietorship of the town's library and book store and other businesses that her grandparents owned. After joining the Military and amassing a fortune, Dax returns to Colton in the hopes of reviving and reinvigorating his hometown and finds that the girl he bullied had also returned to town giving him the added change to atone for his mistreatment of her. I liked the slow burn of Dax's and Callie's road to romance that started with Dax's sincere demonstration regret and her slow acceptance and their desire for more than friendship. A lot takes place in this story and there are a few unanswered questions and open ended time line events; but all in all it is an enjoyable read and a story of redemption and acceptance.
August 29, 2020
When I first read the blurb for this book, I hesitated pre-ordering it. I have definite opinions about bullies. However, I know Eliana via Writers for Diversity, was excited that her first book was coming out, and was curious how she handled the enemies to lovers trope. I'm so glad I did :).
Dax has made an effort to change himself and returns to his hometown to make amends for his past and help rebuild the failing town. Callie Colton, the young woman he bullied, has also made the same commitment, despite the challenges she faced there as a child and now as an adult.
The path to making amends is not an easy one because it takes two -- the person making the amends, and the recipient(s) and what they are willing to accept. While Dax sometimes stumbles in his quest, and Callie does, too, by the end you will be rooting for their success as a couple, and that of Colton which is in serious need of revitalization, in its attitudes and economy.
Thanks to the introduction of a great cast of secondary characters, I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Dax has made an effort to change himself and returns to his hometown to make amends for his past and help rebuild the failing town. Callie Colton, the young woman he bullied, has also made the same commitment, despite the challenges she faced there as a child and now as an adult.
The path to making amends is not an easy one because it takes two -- the person making the amends, and the recipient(s) and what they are willing to accept. While Dax sometimes stumbles in his quest, and Callie does, too, by the end you will be rooting for their success as a couple, and that of Colton which is in serious need of revitalization, in its attitudes and economy.
Thanks to the introduction of a great cast of secondary characters, I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
September 15, 2020
The Way Forward by Eliana West
The story is set in a small Southern town, Colton, that has not progressed with the times and attitudes. Small towns can offer a great sense of community, but small town politics can be quite complex too. Enter the world of Callie who is half Black and half White and Dax who tormented her relentlessly as children. Dax is back in town to make amends to those he wronged as a child and to start life anew. It won’t be easy as his mother is the town “matriarch” and she has the town in her hip pocket. She is one of those people who seem born dissatisfied. Nothing and no one are good enough. She clings to old ideas and prejudices; afraid to admit she is wrong.
Can Callie and Dax move beyond the past and find love?
This book is well written and particularly relevant in today’s world. There are themes of community, love, facing prejudice and family. This book is a great read and will give you lots to think about. I would love to see a sequel about what happens in Colton next.
The story is set in a small Southern town, Colton, that has not progressed with the times and attitudes. Small towns can offer a great sense of community, but small town politics can be quite complex too. Enter the world of Callie who is half Black and half White and Dax who tormented her relentlessly as children. Dax is back in town to make amends to those he wronged as a child and to start life anew. It won’t be easy as his mother is the town “matriarch” and she has the town in her hip pocket. She is one of those people who seem born dissatisfied. Nothing and no one are good enough. She clings to old ideas and prejudices; afraid to admit she is wrong.
Can Callie and Dax move beyond the past and find love?
This book is well written and particularly relevant in today’s world. There are themes of community, love, facing prejudice and family. This book is a great read and will give you lots to think about. I would love to see a sequel about what happens in Colton next.
August 30, 2020
I was 13% into this book and I turned to my husband and said I would be reading all evening and doing nothing else. That’s exactly what I did. I fell into this story and got surrounded by it, finishing it in one day. It’s emotional, tackles some tough issues, and left me with hope for a better future. The love between Callie and Dax is strong and true. It has to be because they have some powerful hurts to get past. The contemporary world racism made me angry but it felt honest and well-addressed. And again, there is a lot of hope in this story. Honestly, I got into all the characters, even the ones I hated. I want more stories in this world. Jacob, Mae, Isiah, Uncle Robert, Reid. I want to see the town of Colton grow into its new self with a thriving downtown. And, since I wasn’t ready to leave Callie and Dax, I want to see their relationship flourish through others stories. This is a really good debut story and I look forward to reading more from this author.
September 7, 2020
This was the first book I have read by Eliana, and I was not able to put it down. This book is about southern traditions and how wrong they are in the here and now.
Callie was tortured by Dax growing up because of the color of her skin. The whites would look down on her because she was half black, and the adterican Americans would look down on her becaise she was half white. Dax would torture her when she would visit for the summers growing up. After years of growing up and serving his country, Dax has returned to a town that is afraid of why he's there.
Dax goes against his momma to reconnect with his brother and find out why he was sent away, fix up his old town, and make amends with the town finding love in the last place he would have ever imagined.
This book is about second chances to fix what looks like can't be mended and moving forward. I cant say enough praises about this book.
Callie was tortured by Dax growing up because of the color of her skin. The whites would look down on her because she was half black, and the adterican Americans would look down on her becaise she was half white. Dax would torture her when she would visit for the summers growing up. After years of growing up and serving his country, Dax has returned to a town that is afraid of why he's there.
Dax goes against his momma to reconnect with his brother and find out why he was sent away, fix up his old town, and make amends with the town finding love in the last place he would have ever imagined.
This book is about second chances to fix what looks like can't be mended and moving forward. I cant say enough praises about this book.
December 13, 2020
A small slice of life
It is scary and sad to think that racism and divisive practices are firmly entrenched in this country even in these modern days. Dax was a horrible child egged on by a dysfunctional mother and unchecked by a weak father. He made Callie’s summers in Colton unbearable, so much so, that his arrival in town brought actual nightmares. Dax returned with a mission....to help revitalize the town and to make amends for his actions. There was no one he harmed more than Callie but the more he was around her the more he realized that he wanted more than forgiveness. But someone in town has taken up his previous reign of terror and again Callie is the target. I really enjoyed this gentle book....more family drama with secrets than romance. One reviewer wondered how Callie could forgive Dax enough to have a relationship with him. Truth be told....I wondered too. He was awful to her. But she is obviously a better person than I am😁🙏
It is scary and sad to think that racism and divisive practices are firmly entrenched in this country even in these modern days. Dax was a horrible child egged on by a dysfunctional mother and unchecked by a weak father. He made Callie’s summers in Colton unbearable, so much so, that his arrival in town brought actual nightmares. Dax returned with a mission....to help revitalize the town and to make amends for his actions. There was no one he harmed more than Callie but the more he was around her the more he realized that he wanted more than forgiveness. But someone in town has taken up his previous reign of terror and again Callie is the target. I really enjoyed this gentle book....more family drama with secrets than romance. One reviewer wondered how Callie could forgive Dax enough to have a relationship with him. Truth be told....I wondered too. He was awful to her. But she is obviously a better person than I am😁🙏
August 26, 2020
This is a book that has a wonderful feel to it even though it is handling discrimination something that is very much in the public eye at the moment and is been beamed all over the world from the US. It handled it well and certainly had you thinking a very well written story
Dax Ellis was a product of his upbringing when he lives in the small town of Colton, Mississippi but he left travelled and made his money now he has returned and he looks at what is happening in the town in an entirely different way. He wants to build a new life there preferable with the woman he treated bad when he was a child but first there will need to be huge changes in the town His he strong enough to bring that about and will Callie Colton stand by his side as he does it.
Dax Ellis was a product of his upbringing when he lives in the small town of Colton, Mississippi but he left travelled and made his money now he has returned and he looks at what is happening in the town in an entirely different way. He wants to build a new life there preferable with the woman he treated bad when he was a child but first there will need to be huge changes in the town His he strong enough to bring that about and will Callie Colton stand by his side as he does it.
August 27, 2020
'The Way Forward' written by Eliana West is the first book in a series. After reading this book, I am so looking forward to the upcoming books yet to come. This love story, intertwined with the desire to rebuild the town, is inspirational. Life lessons learned from past mistakes are what Dax, the main character, struggles to overcome throughout the story. I gave this book a 4 star rating due to the fact that the story line has me struggling a bit in regard to how Callie is able to forgive and then fall in love with Dax who threatened her life but the story is still believable. I highly recommend this book to all.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely.
April 2, 2025
I thought this would be more like “boy who lightly verbally teased girl comes back to hometown and love shenanigans ensue” but Dax was a straight up bully. He threw this girl into the lake and she hurt her arm when it hit a rock (maybe broke it based on how the injury is described). And he pushed her to the dirt, threw rocks at her and hit her in the back and more. WTF?!?! I don’t care how many years passed - what in the Stockholm Syndrome is going on here?! There’s a big difference in growing up and dating the guy who used to say you have cooties versus the guy who gave you injuries that (in theory) sent you to urgent care. Sheesh!
Also - the antagonists are cartoonish.
Also - the ending is super dramatic.
Also - no spice. Hmph.
Also - the antagonists are cartoonish.
Also - the ending is super dramatic.
Also - no spice. Hmph.
September 3, 2020
This isn't just a romance. It's a book about history. It's a book about civics. It opened my eyes to things I thought no longer existed, perhaps because I didn't want to look hard enough. I felt challenged to step up and pay attention. I felt rewarded when I saw the potential for love (not just Callie and Dax but other characters that I hope get their own books). It was a roller coaster of happy highs and lows that made me feel so flipping angry. I loved that the author was so adept at pulling my heartstrings and squeezing out tears. I definitely look forward to more books from West and the people and town that I have come to love.
November 30, 2020
It's review time 🎧
Warning ⚠️ : bigotry, clean romance, small town.
Narrator score🎧 ; the story was told in 3rd person, and the narrator was good as a story teller.
Level of steam🔥: its a clean romance.
Level of anxiety and sadness0😱😢: you have some history in here that is full of regret and amended romantic story the story isn't sad per say, but you have some moments that will make you feel bad.
The book itself📖: its a cute story, that shows us how parents can ruin their children's lives. And its a story about forgiveness, and the logic of a small town. It's a cute and easy story, and it isn't too complex, but its OK. It was a nice pass time.
Warning ⚠️ : bigotry, clean romance, small town.
Narrator score🎧 ; the story was told in 3rd person, and the narrator was good as a story teller.
Level of steam🔥: its a clean romance.
Level of anxiety and sadness0😱😢: you have some history in here that is full of regret and amended romantic story the story isn't sad per say, but you have some moments that will make you feel bad.
The book itself📖: its a cute story, that shows us how parents can ruin their children's lives. And its a story about forgiveness, and the logic of a small town. It's a cute and easy story, and it isn't too complex, but its OK. It was a nice pass time.
September 18, 2020
The story of Dax and Callie.
Dax is back in town and has a building to restore. He also needs to make amends to Callie, who he used to bully as a child. Will she give him a second chance, especially as she is getting bullied again - is it coincidence that it is hapening now he is back in town?
Covers some emotional issues, but a great read. Looking forward to the rest of this series.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
Dax is back in town and has a building to restore. He also needs to make amends to Callie, who he used to bully as a child. Will she give him a second chance, especially as she is getting bullied again - is it coincidence that it is hapening now he is back in town?
Covers some emotional issues, but a great read. Looking forward to the rest of this series.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
September 7, 2021
The Way Ford is a sweet story about redemption and forgiveness. I liked the book, but Dax and Callie's relationship fell a bit flat. Ms. West doesn't Show enough scenes of them getting to know each other. I also think the dialogue needs work. There are moments where Dax sounds like a teenage boy instead of a grown man when it comes to the relationship.
Overall, I liked the Callie and Dax as a couple, but I think their courtship could have been written better.
Overall, I liked the Callie and Dax as a couple, but I think their courtship could have been written better.
March 12, 2022
hmm
Dax Ellis wants to move home and make amends, but Callie Colton just wants to move forward and do her best. Can they do what’s best for Colton, Mississippi?
This one has been in my Kindle for months, but I’m only just now getting to read it. Dax and Callie weren’t my favorite couple, but they offered a good read. I wasn’t too surprised about the reveal at the end, but such is the life.
If you like bully romances and redemption stories, this is for you.
Dax Ellis wants to move home and make amends, but Callie Colton just wants to move forward and do her best. Can they do what’s best for Colton, Mississippi?
This one has been in my Kindle for months, but I’m only just now getting to read it. Dax and Callie weren’t my favorite couple, but they offered a good read. I wasn’t too surprised about the reveal at the end, but such is the life.
If you like bully romances and redemption stories, this is for you.
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