3.78 AVERAGE


I did not get very far in this. The main characters, both male and female, referred to the parental figures as "mama and daddy." It was just weird. 

Also, from what I read, there was no tension, in the first chapter the FMC agrees to go on a date with the MMC and like doesn't put up a fuss, just goes with it, even after what we assume is a one night stand a few years ago that hurt the FMCs feelings...I dunno, I just wasn't into it. 
lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Omgg this book was so cuteeeee!! I love a good small town Romance

What a great small town romance!

I was lucky to meet Alexandra Hale at the HEA signing this past November. I gave her a wine bottle stopper and she gave me this book, I definitely got the better end of that exchange.

This book is a sweet but steamy second chance, small town romance with the perfect amount of side characters to have you coming back for more. Marlee has always loved her life in Clementine Creek, and she knew it was always home, now that she was back, she knows she isn’t leaving. Waylon has always been in love with Marlee, but a 7 year age gap and wanting her to follow her dreams stopped him from showing her, but she’s older now and he just doesn’t want to resist her anymore.

Take an afternoon, spend some time with these two, fall in love with these characters and this town, you will be better for it!
kate_deeds's profile picture

kate_deeds's review

4.0
lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No

Story: 8/10
Spice: 2/5
Spice hierarchy: spicy

Waylon and Marlee have been friends forever. Marlee asks Waylon to do something for her when she graduates high school and he says when she turns 21 if she still wants him, he will agree then. Marlee turns 21 and gives her v-card to Waylon. And since they have been friends forever, she is ready for more. Except Waylon’s other best friend is Marlee’s brother. And Sorren tells Waylon he doesn’t want to see Marlee stuck in their small town. Three years later Marlee is back in their small town and ready for everything she has ever wanted. 

While this story may seem insta-love because they are almost immediately in a relationship, it’s not. Since they have been friends and found family forever, their relationship dynamic is understandable. Waylon loves Marlee so much. And it’s obvious on the pages.  Waylon feels like he may be holding Marlee back but Marlee just wants to feel at home and loved while surrounded by her friends and family. 

I was able to ARC the last book of this series in September and knew I wanted to go back to Clementine Creek. This was my paperback and book box read for January but it is available in KU now too. 

This book is the author's debut novel and an advanced reader copy was provided for an honest review.

This book is a small town, second chance, best friend's sister/brother's best friend novel that was a whole lot of sweet with a dash of spice.

It will leave you contented with the outcome and eagerly anticipating the stories to come for the remaining characters.

The novel highlights the challenges and growth faced by the hero and heroine as they find their way back to each other. Their undeniable bond and love for each other is emphasized right from the start and you will get to experience a taste of that. You'll feel the emotions of these characters and rejoice in their victories.

I found this book to be lighthearted and satisfying, a great debut for both the author and this series and I am excited to see what the Alexandra Hale releases next!

Great intro to Clementine Creek

This was such a fun story introducing the reader to the Clementine Creek community. I’m excited to read more stories about this group.
wordstowhitness's profile picture

wordstowhitness's review

5.0

Alexandra Hale does NOT hold back with this super fun and flirty brothers best friend romance! For a debut novel, I was SO impressed with the whole storyline and that spice.. oof!

This was such a sweet book! I really love second chance romance, and this was such a good one. I loved all the characters and how it sets up other stories.

My favorite part, and what makes small town romance the best genre (imo) is the found family. I love that Waylon's family was Marlee's family and is there for her and her brother no matter what. I love that everyone was rooting for Waylon and Marlee too, knowing they deserved their HEA.

I can't wait to read the next story!

Small town, second chance, brothers best friend trope by this new to me author. I enjoyed getting to know Waylon and Marlee and their family. I can see a lot of great stories coming out of this town. Looks like Hank is next and I can’t wait!