A review by kate_deeds
Back in the Country by Alexandra Hale

lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No

4.0

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.