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The Thornback Society #3
Back to Class
Aryn Murphy loves her family and friends, sports, and teaching school. What she doesn’t love is all the wrong attention she receives from men who don’t know the first thing about her.
When her childhood friend Wesley moves to town and lands a job working at the same school where she teaches, she has the perfect idea – he can be the decoy that keeps all the men away while she focuses on her otherwise perfect life. After all, Wesley has always been someone she’s felt safe with.
Wesley Baker harbored a secret crush on Aryn in high school, and when he arrives at his new job to find Aryn there too, that crush comes raging back. Now she wants him to play the part of doting boyfriend by night, and forgotten coworker by day.
But he had enough of playing pretend all those years ago. This time, he’s looking to play a different game – one with high stakes, and the potential to make them both winners.
Back To Class is a kissing only, sweet and clean romcom, with all the swoon but no explicit content.
When her childhood friend Wesley moves to town and lands a job working at the same school where she teaches, she has the perfect idea – he can be the decoy that keeps all the men away while she focuses on her otherwise perfect life. After all, Wesley has always been someone she’s felt safe with.
Wesley Baker harbored a secret crush on Aryn in high school, and when he arrives at his new job to find Aryn there too, that crush comes raging back. Now she wants him to play the part of doting boyfriend by night, and forgotten coworker by day.
But he had enough of playing pretend all those years ago. This time, he’s looking to play a different game – one with high stakes, and the potential to make them both winners.
Back To Class is a kissing only, sweet and clean romcom, with all the swoon but no explicit content.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2023
55 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
About the author
Aspen Hadley
19 books259 followersAspen Hadley loves nothing more than a great story. She has devoted herself to story-telling for the majority of her life, writing her first novel at her kitchen table in the 8th grade. Aspen writes what she wants to read: clean, sassy, romantic comedy novels that give you a break from real life and leave you feeling happy.
Outside of writing, Aspen's number one hobby is reading. Number two is sneaking chocolate into and out of her private stash without being caught. Other favorite things include: playing the piano, listening to classic rock, telling jokes around the dinner table, eating ice cream, traveling, a good case of the giggles, and riding on ATVs over the trails around her home in Utah.
Aspen shares her life with a patient husband, 4 hilarious children, and 1 grumpy dog in a quiet suburb next to her beloved mountains.
Given the choice she would road trip her life away, singing along to the radio and sleeping in every morning.
You can also find her on Facebook at facebook.com/aspenthewriter and Instagram @aspenhadley_author.
Outside of writing, Aspen's number one hobby is reading. Number two is sneaking chocolate into and out of her private stash without being caught. Other favorite things include: playing the piano, listening to classic rock, telling jokes around the dinner table, eating ice cream, traveling, a good case of the giggles, and riding on ATVs over the trails around her home in Utah.
Aspen shares her life with a patient husband, 4 hilarious children, and 1 grumpy dog in a quiet suburb next to her beloved mountains.
Given the choice she would road trip her life away, singing along to the radio and sleeping in every morning.
You can also find her on Facebook at facebook.com/aspenthewriter and Instagram @aspenhadley_author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 12, 2023
4.5 stars
LOOOOVED.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
First and foremost I have to talk about one of my favorite aspects of Aspen Hadley’s writing and the way she crafts a character. I love that we can see the flaws of her FMC’s. Aryn has things she needs to work on and issues that are weighing her down. And what I appreciate most is that when the conflict comes up in the end it doesn’t turn into miscommunication. It turns into an argument and talking and communicating needs and wants. Compromise and speaking with respect. IT IS MY FAVORITE. I love these kind of conversations and they make my heart absolutely melt.
I looooved the opposites attract, reverse jock/nerd tropes. They worked so well. I just adore Aryn and Wesley. The chemistry was continually flying and all of those little moments really added up to a wonderful romance. I love all of the friendships and family and traveling that happened. The volleyball games were fun and this book was a delight to read.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
LOOOOVED.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
First and foremost I have to talk about one of my favorite aspects of Aspen Hadley’s writing and the way she crafts a character. I love that we can see the flaws of her FMC’s. Aryn has things she needs to work on and issues that are weighing her down. And what I appreciate most is that when the conflict comes up in the end it doesn’t turn into miscommunication. It turns into an argument and talking and communicating needs and wants. Compromise and speaking with respect. IT IS MY FAVORITE. I love these kind of conversations and they make my heart absolutely melt.
I looooved the opposites attract, reverse jock/nerd tropes. They worked so well. I just adore Aryn and Wesley. The chemistry was continually flying and all of those little moments really added up to a wonderful romance. I love all of the friendships and family and traveling that happened. The volleyball games were fun and this book was a delight to read.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
May 27, 2023
Aspen Hadley is a new to me author and I'm so glad I found her. This is part of a series, but absolutely stands on its own. I didn't read the prior books, but definitely want to. Aspen writes such great characters and I'm anxious to learn more about them.
In Back To Class, Aryn is dealing with a guy at the gym who keeps hitting on her. She elicits help from her high-school friend, and coworker, Wesley, to pretend to fake date her. Ahhh fake dating, one of my favorite tropes 🥰
A lot of the book takes place at an elementary school, where Aryn teaches. She has a fantastic girl gang who are all supportive, honest, funny and uplifting. I loved them all. Aryn also has a great bunch of brothers, who are wicked strong and athletic, but also protective with big hearts. I absolutely loved everyone in this book.
This is a sweet clean romance that just brightened my day ❤️
In Back To Class, Aryn is dealing with a guy at the gym who keeps hitting on her. She elicits help from her high-school friend, and coworker, Wesley, to pretend to fake date her. Ahhh fake dating, one of my favorite tropes 🥰
A lot of the book takes place at an elementary school, where Aryn teaches. She has a fantastic girl gang who are all supportive, honest, funny and uplifting. I loved them all. Aryn also has a great bunch of brothers, who are wicked strong and athletic, but also protective with big hearts. I absolutely loved everyone in this book.
This is a sweet clean romance that just brightened my day ❤️
May 26, 2023
Aspen's books are always a must-read for me. I love how she weaves sweet romance with fun friendships and this book was such a fun addition to the series!
Aryn and Wes were friends in high school and now years later, are working at the same school. When Aryn needs someone to pretend to be her boyfriend to scare off a creepy guy, Wes agrees to help. But as fake turns into real and secrets from the past come to light, everything becomes even much more complicated than they ever planned!
Things to love:
Unrequited Love
High school crush
Opposites attract
School teacher romance
He falls first
Single POV
Slow-burn romance
That first kiss!!
Athletic heroine
Friend roadtrip
Laugh-out-loud moments
The romance in this one does take a while to happen and there were times when I wanted to shake some sense into Aryn, but when they do figure things out, it is so very sweet and swoony.
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
Aryn and Wes were friends in high school and now years later, are working at the same school. When Aryn needs someone to pretend to be her boyfriend to scare off a creepy guy, Wes agrees to help. But as fake turns into real and secrets from the past come to light, everything becomes even much more complicated than they ever planned!
Things to love:
Unrequited Love
High school crush
Opposites attract
School teacher romance
He falls first
Single POV
Slow-burn romance
That first kiss!!
Athletic heroine
Friend roadtrip
Laugh-out-loud moments
The romance in this one does take a while to happen and there were times when I wanted to shake some sense into Aryn, but when they do figure things out, it is so very sweet and swoony.
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
June 1, 2023
This sweet and fun story is book three in the Thornback Society Series, and I completely adored it! I loved the previous two books, but I think this one might be my favorite now. Aspen did an outstanding job with the story, writing, humor, and all the feelings and emotions.
Aryn and Wesley were good friends in high school but fell out of touch afterwards. Years later they’re reunited as they work at the same high school together.
When a creepy guy from Aryn’s gym won’t leave her alone, Wesley agrees to be her fake boyfriend. It might be fake for Aryn, but Wesley has had feelings for her for a long, long time.
Wesley is kind, quiet, thoughtful, and loves deeply and completely. He isn’t your typical book hero, but he is absolutely wonderful! Meredith initially describes him as vanilla, but there’s nothing plain or unremarkable about him.
Ayrn is fiercely independent, a jock, and pretty oblivious when it comes to Wesley’s feelings for her. I love how she came to see how great he was and valued the qualities in him that really mattered.
What I loved:
🍎 He falls first
🍏 Opposites attract
🍎 Fake dating
🍏 Jock (her) Geek (him)
🍎 Protective brothers
🍏 Family volleyball team
🍎 Great dialogue & banter
🍏 Strong & loyal friend group
🍎 Stick horse racing
🍏 Ruby—extra funny in this story
🍎 Great character development that flows through each book
🍏 One of the best epilogues ever!
This can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading the first two books.
Many thanks to the author for an eARC. All opinions are my own.
Aryn and Wesley were good friends in high school but fell out of touch afterwards. Years later they’re reunited as they work at the same high school together.
When a creepy guy from Aryn’s gym won’t leave her alone, Wesley agrees to be her fake boyfriend. It might be fake for Aryn, but Wesley has had feelings for her for a long, long time.
Wesley is kind, quiet, thoughtful, and loves deeply and completely. He isn’t your typical book hero, but he is absolutely wonderful! Meredith initially describes him as vanilla, but there’s nothing plain or unremarkable about him.
Ayrn is fiercely independent, a jock, and pretty oblivious when it comes to Wesley’s feelings for her. I love how she came to see how great he was and valued the qualities in him that really mattered.
What I loved:
🍎 He falls first
🍏 Opposites attract
🍎 Fake dating
🍏 Jock (her) Geek (him)
🍎 Protective brothers
🍏 Family volleyball team
🍎 Great dialogue & banter
🍏 Strong & loyal friend group
🍎 Stick horse racing
🍏 Ruby—extra funny in this story
🍎 Great character development that flows through each book
🍏 One of the best epilogues ever!
This can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading the first two books.
Many thanks to the author for an eARC. All opinions are my own.
May 20, 2023
Aspen Hadley has done it again! She’s captured my attention and won my heart with another witty and wonderful story of the Thornback girls.
I loved Aryn and her family. She’s so strong and independent having grown up as the only girl with three older brothers. She has never had a serious relationship and isn’t sure if she’s capable of one.
Wesley is a sweetheart! He’s so patient and kind. He’s willing to wait to get what he wants. He’s got his work cut out for him with Aryn. I love how he never gave up. He was able to reach Aryn and get her to talk about her feelings before things get out of control.
If you like:
Humor
Wit
He falls first
Fake Dating
Friends to more
Great supporting characters
And Sweet Clean Romance i highly recommend this book. I’m looking forward to Ruby’s story.
I loved Aryn and her family. She’s so strong and independent having grown up as the only girl with three older brothers. She has never had a serious relationship and isn’t sure if she’s capable of one.
Wesley is a sweetheart! He’s so patient and kind. He’s willing to wait to get what he wants. He’s got his work cut out for him with Aryn. I love how he never gave up. He was able to reach Aryn and get her to talk about her feelings before things get out of control.
If you like:
Humor
Wit
He falls first
Fake Dating
Friends to more
Great supporting characters
And Sweet Clean Romance i highly recommend this book. I’m looking forward to Ruby’s story.
June 5, 2023
You know those books that hit just right? When your personality and your experiences make it so relatable in all the best ways? That make you nostalgic and happy like a big warm hug? Back to Class was that book for me. I loved it!
Speaking of hugs…this book delivered the best hugs. I know it sounds silly, but sometimes you just want a big cozy hug to make everything better, so that’s what you want the characters to have too. The hugs were perfect!
While the characters in this book are in their 30’s, they met and were friends in high school and that’s when I met and started dating my husband. As they reminisced, I reminisced and recalled all those new-love feelings. Plus, this series takes place in my hometown. The setting isn’t huge in it, but when places are mentioned I can picture it and it’s really fun.
Wesley had some extremely lovable little quirks! I loved that she was the athletic one and he was a techie who went to Lego competitions. He was the sweetest and you can’t help but love him. I loved their history as high school friends and that she is now seeing him in a different light. They are very different but that is what makes them work.
Aryn has a fun dynamic with her brothers and I just loved the scenes with her family. I’m imagining a very athletic version of the Weasley family with their red hair and big, fun personalities.
AND…Fake. Dating. Need I say more? My favorite trope was very well executed and I loved it!
This is the third book in the Thornback Society series, but can totally stand alone. It’s my favorite of the series so far. I love Ruby and all her shenanigans and her fun personality, so I’m really excited for her book next!
🔥:Kisses
Language: none
This book was a breath of fresh air that I really needed—sweet and clean while still bringing the sizzle!
*Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Speaking of hugs…this book delivered the best hugs. I know it sounds silly, but sometimes you just want a big cozy hug to make everything better, so that’s what you want the characters to have too. The hugs were perfect!
While the characters in this book are in their 30’s, they met and were friends in high school and that’s when I met and started dating my husband. As they reminisced, I reminisced and recalled all those new-love feelings. Plus, this series takes place in my hometown. The setting isn’t huge in it, but when places are mentioned I can picture it and it’s really fun.
Wesley had some extremely lovable little quirks! I loved that she was the athletic one and he was a techie who went to Lego competitions. He was the sweetest and you can’t help but love him. I loved their history as high school friends and that she is now seeing him in a different light. They are very different but that is what makes them work.
Aryn has a fun dynamic with her brothers and I just loved the scenes with her family. I’m imagining a very athletic version of the Weasley family with their red hair and big, fun personalities.
AND…Fake. Dating. Need I say more? My favorite trope was very well executed and I loved it!
This is the third book in the Thornback Society series, but can totally stand alone. It’s my favorite of the series so far. I love Ruby and all her shenanigans and her fun personality, so I’m really excited for her book next!
🔥:Kisses
Language: none
This book was a breath of fresh air that I really needed—sweet and clean while still bringing the sizzle!
*Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
June 2, 2023
Another great installment of the Thornback Society is in the books! Literally, haha. Arryn and Wesley were so sweet and fun. This is a bit of a second chance, a whole lot of unrequited love, some fake dating, and a whole lot of fun.
Things I Loved:
-Murphy’d
-"Well, Mr. Baker, I didn't know you were a scrapper."
-"Show me your tongue." He turned to me, pinching his tongs open and closed. "It will be black if you're lying." (No joke, my older sister used to say that our tongues would be blue if we were lying—I’ve never heard anyone else say it before!)
-Horse racing
-Buck Norris 😂
-Bro-lliance
-"Not vanilla at all."
-“He looks at you like you're the chocolate sauce to his vanilla."
-The sign
-Ice cream binge
-Mario Kart
-Panther
-The hugs ♥️
-My lady 😂
-Zingle-tingles
-Leaning
-Pep talks
-Dani
-Sad little olives
-Drive-by winking
-Pocket butter
-99 Questions
-"’No rush.’ Brooks comforted me with a warm hand on my shoulder. ‘You’ll get there.’ ‘He's already waited a long time,’ Meredith said thoughtfully. ‘Get there quickly.’ I looked between the two of them with a smirk. ‘You two realize you just gave me opposing advice, right?’"
-The end. Swoon.
First of all, I absolutely adore Aryn’s family. SO much fun. Secondly, this was a unique mix of tropes and it made me ache for past Wesley, ache a little bit for Arryn and her realization of the past, but seeing it all come together was so, so sweet. Wes is just a cinnamon roll, patient, super great guy. Seeing more of the quirky, crazy Ruby has me excited to see who will take her on and love her well.
Things I Loved:
-Murphy’d
-"Well, Mr. Baker, I didn't know you were a scrapper."
-"Show me your tongue." He turned to me, pinching his tongs open and closed. "It will be black if you're lying." (No joke, my older sister used to say that our tongues would be blue if we were lying—I’ve never heard anyone else say it before!)
-Horse racing
-Buck Norris 😂
-Bro-lliance
-"Not vanilla at all."
-“He looks at you like you're the chocolate sauce to his vanilla."
-The sign
-Ice cream binge
-Mario Kart
-Panther
-The hugs ♥️
-My lady 😂
-Zingle-tingles
-Leaning
-Pep talks
-Dani
-Sad little olives
-Drive-by winking
-Pocket butter
-99 Questions
-"’No rush.’ Brooks comforted me with a warm hand on my shoulder. ‘You’ll get there.’ ‘He's already waited a long time,’ Meredith said thoughtfully. ‘Get there quickly.’ I looked between the two of them with a smirk. ‘You two realize you just gave me opposing advice, right?’"
-The end. Swoon.
First of all, I absolutely adore Aryn’s family. SO much fun. Secondly, this was a unique mix of tropes and it made me ache for past Wesley, ache a little bit for Arryn and her realization of the past, but seeing it all come together was so, so sweet. Wes is just a cinnamon roll, patient, super great guy. Seeing more of the quirky, crazy Ruby has me excited to see who will take her on and love her well.
June 1, 2023
"Wesley Baker. You are the coolest," I said in an awed tone. " I mean it."
Ya know when you read a book and they get together and it's the best but then the book ends and you don't get to see them be together? Well, that's what makes fake dating so flipping delicious- we get interactions!
Now, this is not your typical fake dating- it's even better. Their chemistry, their banter, their everything- be still my beating heart. And then, add that to the rest of the Thornback woman and their friendships, plus all the cameos of their men? Whew. So so good.
If you like slow romances, second chances, fake dating, friends that are family, families that are friends, workplace romances, sports, tech and good books, read this one immediately. (If this is past June 1. If it's still May when you're reading this, preorder immediately)
Ya know when you read a book and they get together and it's the best but then the book ends and you don't get to see them be together? Well, that's what makes fake dating so flipping delicious- we get interactions!
Now, this is not your typical fake dating- it's even better. Their chemistry, their banter, their everything- be still my beating heart. And then, add that to the rest of the Thornback woman and their friendships, plus all the cameos of their men? Whew. So so good.
If you like slow romances, second chances, fake dating, friends that are family, families that are friends, workplace romances, sports, tech and good books, read this one immediately. (If this is past June 1. If it's still May when you're reading this, preorder immediately)
June 1, 2023
I love a book where women who are very different find a true and dependable friendship with each other. This series brings that friendship into each book and I love seeing past characters again.
Aryn and Wess knew each other in high school, but didn’t keep in touch. When they both end up working at the same high school, they reconnect. Aryn asks Wess to pretend to be her boyfriend to get a guy at the gym to leave her alone. As they spend more time together, Aryn starts to see Wess differently.
What I love about Aspen Hadley’s books are the deep characters. I loved how we got to know both of these characters in the past and present. It created a full picture that made me love them more. If you like friends to lovers, fake relationships, or second chance romance, this is one for you!
Aryn and Wess knew each other in high school, but didn’t keep in touch. When they both end up working at the same high school, they reconnect. Aryn asks Wess to pretend to be her boyfriend to get a guy at the gym to leave her alone. As they spend more time together, Aryn starts to see Wess differently.
What I love about Aspen Hadley’s books are the deep characters. I loved how we got to know both of these characters in the past and present. It created a full picture that made me love them more. If you like friends to lovers, fake relationships, or second chance romance, this is one for you!
June 6, 2023
Friends to More…Yes, Please!
I loved this book so, so much!! Such a cute story that kept me turning the pages until I was finished!
I loved that Aryn and Wesley had a history as friends in HS and that now, years later, they work at the same place and that he is constantly coming to her rescue as the tech guy! He’s so dang cute and sweet and his pining away for years really got me! I loved Aryn’s strong, independent personality and how these two opposites totally attract!!
Aryn’s family (mostly her brothers) and friends and their SOs were fun and entertaining side characters that really added to the story!!
Such a fun addition to the Thornback series!!
I loved this book so, so much!! Such a cute story that kept me turning the pages until I was finished!
I loved that Aryn and Wesley had a history as friends in HS and that now, years later, they work at the same place and that he is constantly coming to her rescue as the tech guy! He’s so dang cute and sweet and his pining away for years really got me! I loved Aryn’s strong, independent personality and how these two opposites totally attract!!
Aryn’s family (mostly her brothers) and friends and their SOs were fun and entertaining side characters that really added to the story!!
Such a fun addition to the Thornback series!!
June 4, 2023
I like this book series. The female protagonists are all in their 30s, single, and teachers. They're not dual perspectives either, which is different from a lot of the romcoms I read. I find it refreshing. It was a second chance, friends to lovers, opposites attract, sooo... Lots of fun!
June 6, 2023
I loved this storyline! Girl is super oblivious and boy has been in love with her forever! It was adorable to watch the two come together! I loved the Hero Wesley the most - although he could have stepped it up a bit in High School, love him...now 15 years later he finally gets his chance to make the move! I really enjoyed the more mature setting and it was fun to learn about Ayrn's friends. This is my first book in the Thornback Society. And I really enjoyed it!
July 1, 2023
I loved everything about this book. The characters were incredible. I loved the sporty/nerdy trope, friends-to-more, second chance-ish, forced proximity, work romance, and fake dating.
This book blew me away. I have loved this series and am excited to continue to keep loving it.
The characters are a little quirky, fun, great banter/dialogue together, romantic tension, surprises at every turn and really I can't say enough good things about it. Such a cute romance! I'm telling you every time these two are together it's adorable!
I loved getting back with the Thornback Dragon ladies and seeing where their lives are taking them. I loved seeing their relationships continue to grow and develop in the background. Their personalities make this group so much fun and their significant others add so much fun every time a new love interest is introduced!
If you like romantic comedies, adorable relationship development, an amazing girl gang and friend group you are going to want to pick this one up!
Bring on book 4 because I am ready!!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content/Trigger: unwanted attention from a male jock (mild), friendship, great family relationships, kisses.
This book blew me away. I have loved this series and am excited to continue to keep loving it.
The characters are a little quirky, fun, great banter/dialogue together, romantic tension, surprises at every turn and really I can't say enough good things about it. Such a cute romance! I'm telling you every time these two are together it's adorable!
I loved getting back with the Thornback Dragon ladies and seeing where their lives are taking them. I loved seeing their relationships continue to grow and develop in the background. Their personalities make this group so much fun and their significant others add so much fun every time a new love interest is introduced!
If you like romantic comedies, adorable relationship development, an amazing girl gang and friend group you are going to want to pick this one up!
Bring on book 4 because I am ready!!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content/Trigger: unwanted attention from a male jock (mild), friendship, great family relationships, kisses.
July 9, 2023
I absolutely loved Class Act and also enjoyed A Class Of Her Own, so as soon as I saw this, I knew I had to read it. Aspen knows how to write the smallest toe-curling scenes that leave me cheesing and with butterflies in my stomach. I mean –
Aryn is one of the characters from the first two books that didn’t really make an impression on me. Hailey is the sweet, quiet one, Lizzie is the loud-mouthed one with the long-distance boyfriend, Meredith is another loud-mouthed one with a lot of backbone and Ruby is the nurse. I couldn’t remember a single thing about Aryn going into this book even though I’d finished A Class Of Her Own not too long ago. Her character was really fleshed out in this book, though and I really enjoyed getting to know her.
One of my criticisms of the prior two books was that the romance was written very well, but the friendship scenes were boring to me. This book was better because the friends actually did things together as opposed to just sitting around for Recap and Recoup like in the previous books.
My only qualm is that it felt as though they were too many characters. She had three brothers and I kept forgetting their names, forgetting whose wife was whose, and don’t even get me started on the children. Those kiddos were mentioned a few times but I can’t tell you a single one of their names. I know that three of them are under five years old, but that’s about it.
I highlighted quite a bit in this book, so I thought I’d share my favourite quotes:
Wesley
Aryn
Thornback Society Ladies
“I’m trying to say that I wanted a pizza with all the toppings, but Maddie convinced me that plain cheese pizza was the only real option. So, I ate plain cheese pizza for about two years.”
I thought about that, taking another drink, and then it was my turn to reach for his hand. “Two years is a long time to eat plain cheese pizza.”
He gripped my fingers, intertwining them with his. “Especially when the full topping pizza was there, just out of reach.”
My eyes widened, and I gripped his hand harder. “Are you saying you liked someone else, and Maddie convinced you to date her instead?”
His gaze sank into mine, and I held my breath, desperate to hear his answer. “I’m saying that I know better now, and I’m still a sucker for the full combination.”
Aryn is one of the characters from the first two books that didn’t really make an impression on me. Hailey is the sweet, quiet one, Lizzie is the loud-mouthed one with the long-distance boyfriend, Meredith is another loud-mouthed one with a lot of backbone and Ruby is the nurse. I couldn’t remember a single thing about Aryn going into this book even though I’d finished A Class Of Her Own not too long ago. Her character was really fleshed out in this book, though and I really enjoyed getting to know her.
One of my criticisms of the prior two books was that the romance was written very well, but the friendship scenes were boring to me. This book was better because the friends actually did things together as opposed to just sitting around for Recap and Recoup like in the previous books.
My only qualm is that it felt as though they were too many characters. She had three brothers and I kept forgetting their names, forgetting whose wife was whose, and don’t even get me started on the children. Those kiddos were mentioned a few times but I can’t tell you a single one of their names. I know that three of them are under five years old, but that’s about it.
I highlighted quite a bit in this book, so I thought I’d share my favourite quotes:
Wesley
“Everything was bold and dramatic, hot and cold. In the end, though, I was exhausted, and I think she was tired of dragging my carcass around behind her.”
He slid his arm around my back and turned that light hand on my neck into a firmer hold as he pulled me close. “I’m going to kiss you. Any objections?”
“You were everything,” he whispered. “All I could hope for was to be in your circle.”
“I’m still amazed that my journey brought me to this place, here with you. You’re it for me, Aryn.”
Finally, after what feels like an eternity, it’s just Aryn and me. I move to pull her into my arms and… well, apparently, it’s just me, and Aryn, and Meredith, and Hailey, and Ruby. We’re somehow all hugging. But that’s okay. I always knew Aryn would come as a package deal.
Aryn
Ruby wasn’t my go-to for problems because she tended to come back with responses such as ‘It’ll feel better once it stops hurting.’
“We strive for the best.” I had no reply for that because I typically ate my microwave meals right out of the package with the occasional plate if it needed extra support under it. But I didn’t think [Wesley’s mom] would appreciate me offering up that information.
Thornback Society Ladies
Ruby grinned at Meredith. “I love when you share the juicy bits. They give me life.”
June 4, 2023
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Aryn’s point of view
Review:
I loved this story so much! Especially with Ruby’s off the walls actions and reactions to things! I also really liked it when she went out of her way to embarrass or call out one of the other Thornback women. Aryn was independent when it came to things she could actually do herself but deferred to others with better knowledge when she had issues with things (like technology). I liked that we could see that balance in the story and how it came into play in her relationships. I loved that Wes was willing to step in to help Aryn and to spend time with her when she was having issues with someone at her volleyball games. I also really liked that Wes knew when he had to step back to take care of himself. All the steps and development of their relationship was very enjoyable to read! Some of my favorite scenes/moments in this book included: Ruby’s shenanigans, Wes pretending to be Aryn’s boyfriend, Wes being patient with Aryn when it came to technology, St. Patrick’s Day, meeting Wes’s parents, and Aryn’s brothers making bets on any little thing about their relationship.
Summary:
Aryn loves almost everything in her life. The things she could do without are technology glitching out on her and guys who think that they should get a date just because they saw each other a few times at the gym. Aryn doesn’t want another gym bro kind of relationship and has explicitly told the most recent entitled suitor that. But when he chooses to continually act like she didn’t say no, Aryn gets a little creative. She makes up a boyfriend for herself and ends up giving her fictional man the same name as her new coworker/childhood friend. Wesley is someone who makes Aryn feel comfortable, but it’s definitely still awkward to ask Wes to act like her boyfriend during volleyball games and let him know that his name slipped out of her mouth when she made up a fake boyfriend to begin with.
Surprisingly, Wes takes it all in stride and steps up to the challenge. Aryn is amazed by how easily Wes convinces her team and some other people that they are in a relationship. And she’s a little surprised by the feelings she’s getting in the process as well. But not everything is as easy or seamless with the change in their friendship. Because at work, they are still just coworkers and Aryn doesn’t know how to act around Wesley with other people around. Her confusion could end things before they have the possibility to ever really begin…
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Aryn’s point of view
Review:
I loved this story so much! Especially with Ruby’s off the walls actions and reactions to things! I also really liked it when she went out of her way to embarrass or call out one of the other Thornback women. Aryn was independent when it came to things she could actually do herself but deferred to others with better knowledge when she had issues with things (like technology). I liked that we could see that balance in the story and how it came into play in her relationships. I loved that Wes was willing to step in to help Aryn and to spend time with her when she was having issues with someone at her volleyball games. I also really liked that Wes knew when he had to step back to take care of himself. All the steps and development of their relationship was very enjoyable to read! Some of my favorite scenes/moments in this book included: Ruby’s shenanigans, Wes pretending to be Aryn’s boyfriend, Wes being patient with Aryn when it came to technology, St. Patrick’s Day, meeting Wes’s parents, and Aryn’s brothers making bets on any little thing about their relationship.
Summary:
Aryn loves almost everything in her life. The things she could do without are technology glitching out on her and guys who think that they should get a date just because they saw each other a few times at the gym. Aryn doesn’t want another gym bro kind of relationship and has explicitly told the most recent entitled suitor that. But when he chooses to continually act like she didn’t say no, Aryn gets a little creative. She makes up a boyfriend for herself and ends up giving her fictional man the same name as her new coworker/childhood friend. Wesley is someone who makes Aryn feel comfortable, but it’s definitely still awkward to ask Wes to act like her boyfriend during volleyball games and let him know that his name slipped out of her mouth when she made up a fake boyfriend to begin with.
Surprisingly, Wes takes it all in stride and steps up to the challenge. Aryn is amazed by how easily Wes convinces her team and some other people that they are in a relationship. And she’s a little surprised by the feelings she’s getting in the process as well. But not everything is as easy or seamless with the change in their friendship. Because at work, they are still just coworkers and Aryn doesn’t know how to act around Wesley with other people around. Her confusion could end things before they have the possibility to ever really begin…
May 31, 2023
I'm a little torn with how to rate this book, because on the one hand, I laughed out loud more reading this book than I have in a long time. But on the other hand, the female characters were kind of mean and I was a bit turned off by their personalities.
The positives: I absolutely love how incredibly witty and humorous Aspen Hadley is in her writing. The lines I could quote from this book that had me smiling and genuinely laughing out loud were plentiful. I smiled so much during many a scene. I especially loved the creativity and humor of the stick horse racing. Oh my gosh, I wanted to attend that party. The names of the horses too, for real, Aspen gets a total 'A+' for that humor. The deep tissue massage scene is also so incredibly memorable, I will never think of a massage the same. I also liked that Wesley had pined for Aryn and they had that friendship past. Wesley was a good character.
The reason for the lower stars: Aryn was kind of oblivious in a way that made her come across a bit stuck up to me. The way she treated Wesley throughout the story made it seem like she used him and honestly, I was like why does he like her? I think the story could have benefited a lot if it had Wesley's POV. It may have softened things a bit and helped me understand why he took some of the things Aryn, Meredith, and Ruby dished out to him. And what he saw in Aryn more deeply.
Speaking of Meredith and Ruby...I kind of don't like them. Meredith was a bit prickly in her own book, but this one really turned me off of her character to the extent I would not want to go back and read her book again with this taste in my mouth. Ruby was also a little too crazy for me. Some of the things they said and did, instead of making me laugh made me think they were the “mean girls” not the ones you wanted to be friends with.
Overall, I laughed enough and liked things enough overall to give this book four stars and be able to still recommend it. It’s a cute clean romcom.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The positives: I absolutely love how incredibly witty and humorous Aspen Hadley is in her writing. The lines I could quote from this book that had me smiling and genuinely laughing out loud were plentiful. I smiled so much during many a scene. I especially loved the creativity and humor of the stick horse racing. Oh my gosh, I wanted to attend that party. The names of the horses too, for real, Aspen gets a total 'A+' for that humor. The deep tissue massage scene is also so incredibly memorable, I will never think of a massage the same. I also liked that Wesley had pined for Aryn and they had that friendship past. Wesley was a good character.
The reason for the lower stars: Aryn was kind of oblivious in a way that made her come across a bit stuck up to me. The way she treated Wesley throughout the story made it seem like she used him and honestly, I was like why does he like her? I think the story could have benefited a lot if it had Wesley's POV. It may have softened things a bit and helped me understand why he took some of the things Aryn, Meredith, and Ruby dished out to him. And what he saw in Aryn more deeply.
Speaking of Meredith and Ruby...I kind of don't like them. Meredith was a bit prickly in her own book, but this one really turned me off of her character to the extent I would not want to go back and read her book again with this taste in my mouth. Ruby was also a little too crazy for me. Some of the things they said and did, instead of making me laugh made me think they were the “mean girls” not the ones you wanted to be friends with.
Overall, I laughed enough and liked things enough overall to give this book four stars and be able to still recommend it. It’s a cute clean romcom.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 31, 2023
I enjoyed this cute story about Aryn (a teacher) who has this random guy hitting on her until her high school friend comes to town (also a teacher) becomes her fake boyfriend to help her. I’m a huge sucker for fake dating as there is a lot of relationship development between the couple. I haven’t read Hadley’s books before and this one didn’t disappoint at all. This was a very cute book and I loved the conflicts thrown in the story. The writing style was easy to read and flowed throughout the novel. The pacing was perfect and I enjoyed the setting of the story. The writing style was very well done though I did wish we had Wesley’s pov as I wanted to know what he thought throughout the book.
Aryn is the main character in this story and let me say that she was an okay FMC. I sometimes found her annoying with the way she acted but there were moments where she was inspiring in a way. She did have a development which is my favorite part about a character. Then there is Wesley who is honesty such a sweet guy. He cares so much for Aryn (which idk why) but it’s so cute. The side characters were okay for me but they were involved the perfect amount in the book. As though this is an adult book, it’s a clean romance with just kissing which I didn’t mind even though I’m a spicy ready. It did have my favorite tropes like friends to lovers, fake dating, opposites attract, high school crush and slow burn.
The ending was nicely done and overall I enjoyed this story. I know many readers will love this book if they prefer clean romance books as this author is a great writer. I did have some minor issues but mostly the characters for me though that is very opinionated. I recommend this book though I recommend starting with the first one if you have time to explore the world.
*this e-arc was sent to me by the author to give an honest review in return*
Aryn is the main character in this story and let me say that she was an okay FMC. I sometimes found her annoying with the way she acted but there were moments where she was inspiring in a way. She did have a development which is my favorite part about a character. Then there is Wesley who is honesty such a sweet guy. He cares so much for Aryn (which idk why) but it’s so cute. The side characters were okay for me but they were involved the perfect amount in the book. As though this is an adult book, it’s a clean romance with just kissing which I didn’t mind even though I’m a spicy ready. It did have my favorite tropes like friends to lovers, fake dating, opposites attract, high school crush and slow burn.
The ending was nicely done and overall I enjoyed this story. I know many readers will love this book if they prefer clean romance books as this author is a great writer. I did have some minor issues but mostly the characters for me though that is very opinionated. I recommend this book though I recommend starting with the first one if you have time to explore the world.
*this e-arc was sent to me by the author to give an honest review in return*
June 1, 2023
Best Friends from HS reconnect as Teachers
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 🫑
This is my first book by this author and I know that I will not only be reading the rest of this series but all of her back catalog. With a sweet, clean writing style that will draw you in from the first line, and with wonderful dialogue that will leave you wiping the tears from your eyes and your side hurting from laughing so hard, this is a must read book. You will meet not just a wonderfully fun romantic pairing in Aryn and Wesley, but a group of friends that will make you swear that you are already part of their crowd, and a family of brothers and sisters in law that make you wish you were part of their world.
Aryn is the best sixth grade teacher you could ask for, but she and her classroom are where technology goes to die. Wesley, her best friend from high school, has just returned to town and is the school district’s Tech Wizard. However, they have not reconnected despite his permanent place in the back of the classroom; that is until one day when a particularly dense and “will not take no for an answer” jock corners Aryn and she blurts out that she is in a committed relationship with….Wesley. Cue the beginning of the best “will you do me a favor” ask, and the introduction of Wesley’s killer personality, add to that mix a family of overprotective brothers along with opinionated female friends and you have the recipe for a wonderfully sweet romantic comedy. As you can tell, I loved every chapter of the book and fell into this from the first line of the first chapter without reading the first two books in this series.
If you are looking for a fun, feel good, laugh out loud read that is filled with great dialogue and wonderful banter, check this book out and settle in for a wonderful time!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 🫑
This is my first book by this author and I know that I will not only be reading the rest of this series but all of her back catalog. With a sweet, clean writing style that will draw you in from the first line, and with wonderful dialogue that will leave you wiping the tears from your eyes and your side hurting from laughing so hard, this is a must read book. You will meet not just a wonderfully fun romantic pairing in Aryn and Wesley, but a group of friends that will make you swear that you are already part of their crowd, and a family of brothers and sisters in law that make you wish you were part of their world.
Aryn is the best sixth grade teacher you could ask for, but she and her classroom are where technology goes to die. Wesley, her best friend from high school, has just returned to town and is the school district’s Tech Wizard. However, they have not reconnected despite his permanent place in the back of the classroom; that is until one day when a particularly dense and “will not take no for an answer” jock corners Aryn and she blurts out that she is in a committed relationship with….Wesley. Cue the beginning of the best “will you do me a favor” ask, and the introduction of Wesley’s killer personality, add to that mix a family of overprotective brothers along with opinionated female friends and you have the recipe for a wonderfully sweet romantic comedy. As you can tell, I loved every chapter of the book and fell into this from the first line of the first chapter without reading the first two books in this series.
If you are looking for a fun, feel good, laugh out loud read that is filled with great dialogue and wonderful banter, check this book out and settle in for a wonderful time!
June 1, 2023
“‘We love you and want you to be happy,’ Ruby replied. ‘Even though it looks like we’re trying to mess up your life.’”
The Thornback women are back! Aryn Murphy was shocked when her high school friend Wesley shows up as the new IT guy at the school where she teaches. It’s been fun to reconnect a bit amidst her ongoing technology issues. But despite what her friends think, that’s all there is to it. Until she invents a fake boyfriend to get a mark of a guy off her back. The guy won’t quit, so Aryn asks Wesley to be that fake boyfriend. Surely everything will go back to normal when they “break-up”, right?
This is such a fun series! I really enjoyed Aryn and Wesley’s story! And Aryn’s brothers are so fun! I hope we see more of them. And I loved the high school friends reconnecting and fake dating tropes together. And they are complete opposites, which is always fun! I’ve really enjoyed each book in this series, and I can’t wait for Ruby’s story! She is quite the character!! Although, I was hoping she’d end up with Aryn’s brother, but when I asked the author, she told me Ruby is destined for someone else. Bummer. (Although she also mentioned Rory might get good his own story one day. 🤞🏻) But I’m sure I’ll be happy with whoever she ends up with!
The Thornback women are back! Aryn Murphy was shocked when her high school friend Wesley shows up as the new IT guy at the school where she teaches. It’s been fun to reconnect a bit amidst her ongoing technology issues. But despite what her friends think, that’s all there is to it. Until she invents a fake boyfriend to get a mark of a guy off her back. The guy won’t quit, so Aryn asks Wesley to be that fake boyfriend. Surely everything will go back to normal when they “break-up”, right?
This is such a fun series! I really enjoyed Aryn and Wesley’s story! And Aryn’s brothers are so fun! I hope we see more of them. And I loved the high school friends reconnecting and fake dating tropes together. And they are complete opposites, which is always fun! I’ve really enjoyed each book in this series, and I can’t wait for Ruby’s story! She is quite the character!! Although, I was hoping she’d end up with Aryn’s brother, but when I asked the author, she told me Ruby is destined for someone else. Bummer. (Although she also mentioned Rory might get good his own story one day. 🤞🏻) But I’m sure I’ll be happy with whoever she ends up with!
August 25, 2025
I love Aspen Hadley’s books because she just has such fun with the story. Aryn and Wesley were so fun! I loved the friendships in this book and the dynamics. I loved Aryn’s character growth.
Favorite parts!
-the St Patrick’s day party
-how sweet and patient Wesley was.
-their Moab trip
Favorite quotes:
"Well, either he's an amazing actor, or there are a few sparks there," Hailey said gently.
I set my menu down again. "What?"
"Yeah. He looks at you like you're the chocolate sauce to his vanilla," Ruby licked her lips. "Yummy."
My lips drew into a flat line as I shook my head. "He does not. He looks at me the same way he always has."
The three of them exchanged glances and then looked down at their menus as I individually stabbed them with eye lasers. Finally, Meredith looked back directly into my eyes. "Fine, I'll be the one to say it. If he's always looked at you that way, then he's always been into you. I'm pretty oblivious, Aryn, and even I can see he thinks you're special,"
"Have you kissed? Not for fake, but for real?" I nodded. "And? Any fireworks?" Blushing this time, I nodded again. She smiled and put her spoon back in the pot. "Good. Friendship, plus fireworks, is good."
Favorite parts!
-the St Patrick’s day party
-how sweet and patient Wesley was.
-their Moab trip
Favorite quotes:
"Well, either he's an amazing actor, or there are a few sparks there," Hailey said gently.
I set my menu down again. "What?"
"Yeah. He looks at you like you're the chocolate sauce to his vanilla," Ruby licked her lips. "Yummy."
My lips drew into a flat line as I shook my head. "He does not. He looks at me the same way he always has."
The three of them exchanged glances and then looked down at their menus as I individually stabbed them with eye lasers. Finally, Meredith looked back directly into my eyes. "Fine, I'll be the one to say it. If he's always looked at you that way, then he's always been into you. I'm pretty oblivious, Aryn, and even I can see he thinks you're special,"
"Have you kissed? Not for fake, but for real?" I nodded. "And? Any fireworks?" Blushing this time, I nodded again. She smiled and put her spoon back in the pot. "Good. Friendship, plus fireworks, is good."
May 22, 2023
I'm loving reading these books in The Thornback Society series! I've been really excited to read Aryn's story, just because I had kind of guessed who her match would be. And she was so oblivious. I loved that about her!
Aryn is a jock. I loved the way she plays on a volleyball league with her brothers and sister in law. She's the kind of girl who is always winning a physical challenge. And the betting she does with her family. I loved that about them so much! Aryn has some attention from one guy in particular that she doesn't want attention from. When he won't back off, she reaches out to Wesley to see if he'd be willing to fake a relationship with her.
I would have loved to have seen some of this book from Wesley's point of view. He is so obviously into Aryn. I really feel like that would have enriched the story. But the way the author did it, the reader is as clueless as Aryn, and that was fun too. Wesley is such a great guy. He notices things and goes out of his way to do nice things.
I loved this book so much! I can't wait to read the next story.
I was sent an e-copy of Back to Class as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
Aryn is a jock. I loved the way she plays on a volleyball league with her brothers and sister in law. She's the kind of girl who is always winning a physical challenge. And the betting she does with her family. I loved that about them so much! Aryn has some attention from one guy in particular that she doesn't want attention from. When he won't back off, she reaches out to Wesley to see if he'd be willing to fake a relationship with her.
I would have loved to have seen some of this book from Wesley's point of view. He is so obviously into Aryn. I really feel like that would have enriched the story. But the way the author did it, the reader is as clueless as Aryn, and that was fun too. Wesley is such a great guy. He notices things and goes out of his way to do nice things.
I loved this book so much! I can't wait to read the next story.
I was sent an e-copy of Back to Class as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
June 4, 2023
Fake dating, second chances, he falls first - all tags that can be used to describe this amazing story by Aspen Hadley! Our main characters, Aryn and Wesley, reconnect in their 30s after being best friends in high school. Aryn is the jock, sporty and athletic. Wesley is the computer geek, quiet and techy. When Aryn starts having an issue that needs a fake boyfriend, Wesley’s name just tumbles out!
The relationships in this book make my heart happy. The friendship between Aryn, Meredith, Hailey, Ruby and Lizzie tugs at my heart. The relationship Aryn has with her brothers and the family traditions they have (St. Patty’s Day would be so much fun) felt so real and I could imagine being a part of that family. The conversation Aryn had with her mother in the kitchen is where most of my highlights for this book came from.
If you love clean romance with some kissing and lots of laughs, grab this up! I’m definitely going back and reading books 1 & 2. (Yes, I started in the middle of a series. I do it all the time and then have to start the series.)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The relationships in this book make my heart happy. The friendship between Aryn, Meredith, Hailey, Ruby and Lizzie tugs at my heart. The relationship Aryn has with her brothers and the family traditions they have (St. Patty’s Day would be so much fun) felt so real and I could imagine being a part of that family. The conversation Aryn had with her mother in the kitchen is where most of my highlights for this book came from.
If you love clean romance with some kissing and lots of laughs, grab this up! I’m definitely going back and reading books 1 & 2. (Yes, I started in the middle of a series. I do it all the time and then have to start the series.)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 6, 2023
When Wesley is the main character then clearly I’m going to as you wish him. He’s nerdy and techy. Reconnecting with his high school friend at work turns his life upside down. He is so sweet and reminded me of my husband. Unexpected, funny and just so easy to love.
Aryn is the friend at work. Zero techy, athletic, and part of a strong friend group at a school. She tears through life at full speed and is the product of having older brothers. She has lots of growing pains and I’m looking forward to seeing how she settles in the next book.
This is another fun addition to @aspenhadley_author series and I am loving it. She is a true rom-com author with plenty of clean swoon and comedy throughout. Can’t wait to see who Ruby ends up with!
😂 laugh out loud moments
🛶 road-tripping adventures
💋swoony moments
❤️ fake dating
🏐 great older brothers
🐉 close friendships
🐴 hilarious family traditions
👀 a true continuation series where we get to see all the couples interact (I so love that!)
✍🏻 epilogue with Wesley’s thoughts
See what happens when love needs a special hall pass. Even though the school year is ending you will definitely want to go right Back to Class.
Aryn is the friend at work. Zero techy, athletic, and part of a strong friend group at a school. She tears through life at full speed and is the product of having older brothers. She has lots of growing pains and I’m looking forward to seeing how she settles in the next book.
This is another fun addition to @aspenhadley_author series and I am loving it. She is a true rom-com author with plenty of clean swoon and comedy throughout. Can’t wait to see who Ruby ends up with!
😂 laugh out loud moments
🛶 road-tripping adventures
💋swoony moments
❤️ fake dating
🏐 great older brothers
🐉 close friendships
🐴 hilarious family traditions
👀 a true continuation series where we get to see all the couples interact (I so love that!)
✍🏻 epilogue with Wesley’s thoughts
See what happens when love needs a special hall pass. Even though the school year is ending you will definitely want to go right Back to Class.
June 1, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Back To Class, the third book in the Thornback Series. It brought all the characters from previous series together as well as some I cannot wait to read about in future months! (Looking at you Rubes!)
This is a fun story that is both light hearted and deep. We have a fairly oblivious female main character, Aryn, whose tech savvy is non-existent. But her skills on the volleyball court are undisputed. But when Shane, a player (in more ways than one) keeps bothering her at the gym during game nights, her obvious answer is “I have a boyfriend”.
Enter, Wesley “Vanilla” Baker, aka, the school tech guy and former high school BFF to Aryn. He’s recused her before during school hours when her projector won’t work, but now she’s asking him to save her from Shane.
Will a fake dating scenario remove Shane from Aryn’s life, or will it cause more chaos and disruption?
Also included:
Big, burly, overprotective brothers
Best friend group (and boyfriends)
Lego league nights
One man cheer squad
Ice cream
Road trip
And a whole lot of past secrets!
This is a fun story that is both light hearted and deep. We have a fairly oblivious female main character, Aryn, whose tech savvy is non-existent. But her skills on the volleyball court are undisputed. But when Shane, a player (in more ways than one) keeps bothering her at the gym during game nights, her obvious answer is “I have a boyfriend”.
Enter, Wesley “Vanilla” Baker, aka, the school tech guy and former high school BFF to Aryn. He’s recused her before during school hours when her projector won’t work, but now she’s asking him to save her from Shane.
Will a fake dating scenario remove Shane from Aryn’s life, or will it cause more chaos and disruption?
Also included:
Big, burly, overprotective brothers
Best friend group (and boyfriends)
Lego league nights
One man cheer squad
Ice cream
Road trip
And a whole lot of past secrets!
June 14, 2023
I enjoy this author for the humor and relatable moments that make the story believable. A romcom with strong and heartwarming friendships. The dialgue is excellent. Aryn was written layered and not cookie cutter. She had real emotions and thoughts as someone in the real world. I liked that while she's a great person not perfect and could work on stubborness and the chip on her shoulder when being helped by her brothers or boyfriend. The author does well in showing and not telling. The story had a natural flow. I loved the horse racing and the clever names! I loved Wesley for his steadiness in character. Ruby is next for her book. I do like her but for me sometimes she seemed too much & lacking some self awarness. Or taking too much energy to be around. Meredith seemed to have maybe been more antagonistic a few times. However, I fully think it's my own personal view clashing and not poor writing. Definitely your mileage may vary with that. Overall, I think this group is wonderful and this series is so fun.
January 19, 2025
I AM IN LOVE 😍 . Aryn and Wesley are the cutest. The plot. The cutest. The yearning for YEARS?! The cutest. Wow
Aryn. Jock 🏐, red hair, tall, and surrounded by gladiator ⚔️ brothers. Definitely a force to be reckoned with. Girlboss at the gym 👟, and tech 💻disaster in the classroom, but that’s where Wesley comes in.
Wesley. Nerd 🤓, glasses, and tech support 🧑🏼💻 at Washington elementary school (aka tech support for Aryn Murphy’s daily disasters). He dated Aryn’s best friend in high school 👀 (ikr! The backstory had my jaw on the floor 🫢).
And of course, the Thornback sisters. This highlight goes out to RUBY 😂!!! OHMYGOSH! I don’t know if I can wait for her book. I am so excited to see what unicorn 🦄 of a human comes around for her. Aryn’s family came into play and WOWZAH gladiator is the correct way to describe them. The scene where they’re mad a creepo-gym-guy 🔥🔥🔥. I’m interested to hear more of their love stories (Dani is definitely a personal favorite).
This book was amazing. Childhood friends ➡️ strangers ➡️ fake dating➡️ love WOW. The *communication* at the end and WESLEY’S BACKSTORY!! The last few chapters had me freaking out 🎢.
These books keep getting better and better while still being clean, sweet romances! 10/10 recommend this series ❤️⭐️
Aryn. Jock 🏐, red hair, tall, and surrounded by gladiator ⚔️ brothers. Definitely a force to be reckoned with. Girlboss at the gym 👟, and tech 💻disaster in the classroom, but that’s where Wesley comes in.
Wesley. Nerd 🤓, glasses, and tech support 🧑🏼💻 at Washington elementary school (aka tech support for Aryn Murphy’s daily disasters). He dated Aryn’s best friend in high school 👀 (ikr! The backstory had my jaw on the floor 🫢).
And of course, the Thornback sisters. This highlight goes out to RUBY 😂!!! OHMYGOSH! I don’t know if I can wait for her book. I am so excited to see what unicorn 🦄 of a human comes around for her. Aryn’s family came into play and WOWZAH gladiator is the correct way to describe them. The scene where they’re mad a creepo-gym-guy 🔥🔥🔥. I’m interested to hear more of their love stories (Dani is definitely a personal favorite).
This book was amazing. Childhood friends ➡️ strangers ➡️ fake dating➡️ love WOW. The *communication* at the end and WESLEY’S BACKSTORY!! The last few chapters had me freaking out 🎢.
These books keep getting better and better while still being clean, sweet romances! 10/10 recommend this series ❤️⭐️
June 1, 2023
Hadley’s books are always a must read for me and this Thornback Society series is possibly my top favorite. I love them! (Bonus, while these are part of a series you can read each as a stand alone too).
Aryn and her family are fun and relatable. Wesley is kind and patient, but one of my favorite things about Hadley’s books are her character are SO realistic and relatable. They are not perfect, have flaws and are vulnerable. I also always love a good fake boyfriend plot! It’s one of my favorite.
Many of Hadley’s books are set in schools and around teachers, the Thornback books are no different. As a school employee myself this is probably another reason I love them, I am always recommending them to my teacher friends. They are fun, light, clean (with some good kissing scenes) and have good humor. If you are looking for some new summer reading books start with any of Aspen Hadley’s book, and maybe bump this series up to the top!
Aryn and her family are fun and relatable. Wesley is kind and patient, but one of my favorite things about Hadley’s books are her character are SO realistic and relatable. They are not perfect, have flaws and are vulnerable. I also always love a good fake boyfriend plot! It’s one of my favorite.
Many of Hadley’s books are set in schools and around teachers, the Thornback books are no different. As a school employee myself this is probably another reason I love them, I am always recommending them to my teacher friends. They are fun, light, clean (with some good kissing scenes) and have good humor. If you are looking for some new summer reading books start with any of Aspen Hadley’s book, and maybe bump this series up to the top!
June 6, 2023
In Back to Class, Aryn is a teacher and calls IT support on the regular, who just happens to be someone she was best friends with in high school, Wesley. Their story was so enjoyable and engaging! I had started it and was almost done before I even knew it!
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Aryn is independent and a fierce competitor in sports. Wesley is more into LEGO competitions and on the quiet side. I loved Aryn’s friend group and her interactions with her family. I also enjoyed how Aryn and Wesley faced real life challenges as they navigated the beginnings of a relationship. The volleyball games, meeting Wesley’s parents, St Patrick’s Day fun, and their friend trip were some of my favorite parts!
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This was my first read by this author but will definitely not be my last! I can’t wait to read more from her and highly recommend this story!
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I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
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Aryn is independent and a fierce competitor in sports. Wesley is more into LEGO competitions and on the quiet side. I loved Aryn’s friend group and her interactions with her family. I also enjoyed how Aryn and Wesley faced real life challenges as they navigated the beginnings of a relationship. The volleyball games, meeting Wesley’s parents, St Patrick’s Day fun, and their friend trip were some of my favorite parts!
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This was my first read by this author but will definitely not be my last! I can’t wait to read more from her and highly recommend this story!
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I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
June 8, 2023
These Thornback ladies are the best!
So excited to get to finally read about Aryn. Second chance is so awesome when you’re able to know some of their background as the story progresses and see where things might have gone differently.
Aryn and Westley grew up together… now they work with each other. There was years in between these tho that they didn’t keep touch. When Aryn needs a fake boyfriend Westley jumps right in.
The tough part… and best part!… is when they both can’t tell what is fake and what is real! Watching the love unfold.. or rekindle is so enjoyable. There is humor, deep feelings and of course super awesome friends along the way.
I bet Aryn is now thankful she has technology difficulties!
Fun note. I’m now plotting how to have stick horse races annually at my house!!!
I’m a huge fan of series. Especially when it’s a group of friends. It was so awesome to come back to the Thornback women!
Thank you to the author for the ARC! These opinions are my own.
June 2, 2023
Gah, I love sibling text threads 🥹 so good! Aryn and her brothers never failed to make me smile with their antics.
St. Patrick's Day celebration, so much fun with all the festivities, including the stick horse race with a betting pool run by caveman Rory and horse puns that cracked me up. The deep tissue massage that consequently followed had me in stitches. The four friends embarrassed me in public, but I don't care 😂
Another Thornback book that had me in stitches and blew me away. The communication once again impressed me. There was no room for assumptions and unnecessary heartache. The MCs lay it all bare.
I cannot wait for Ruby's story. Her antics in this one were so hilarious. I can't believe that parts of this story are based on real life from the author's perspective 😂 I love these women!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an ARC.
St. Patrick's Day celebration, so much fun with all the festivities, including the stick horse race with a betting pool run by caveman Rory and horse puns that cracked me up. The deep tissue massage that consequently followed had me in stitches. The four friends embarrassed me in public, but I don't care 😂
Another Thornback book that had me in stitches and blew me away. The communication once again impressed me. There was no room for assumptions and unnecessary heartache. The MCs lay it all bare.
I cannot wait for Ruby's story. Her antics in this one were so hilarious. I can't believe that parts of this story are based on real life from the author's perspective 😂 I love these women!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an ARC.
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