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Running Towards You
Haley Ellis. My first love—no, scratch that—the love of my life.
And for one steamy summer, she was mine.
When summer ended, she abruptly broke things off and walked away, leaving a hole where my future used to be.
Now she's back in Hanalei, the sleepy surf town where we used to spend summers as kids.
She's still fierce, still fiery, and still my little sister's best friend.
I've made my home in Hanalei as a surf instructor after a career-ending knee injury.
And she was supposed to be getting married…
So why is she sunbathing on the adjoining porch, making my blood boil with desire?
I want to be angry with her for ruining our happily ever after.
But the pain in her eyes ignites my protective instincts.
Now she's reaching for me, not just for safety, but for the love we left unfinished.
Can we survive the second wave of love, or will this be our final wipeout?
Why you'll love it...
Retired NFL football player
Runaway Bride
Best Friend's Brother
Next Door Neighbor
Off Limits
Second Chance
Protective Hero
Running Towards You is a standalone full-length novel with tons of steamy longing and emotion. HEA guaranteed!
And for one steamy summer, she was mine.
When summer ended, she abruptly broke things off and walked away, leaving a hole where my future used to be.
Now she's back in Hanalei, the sleepy surf town where we used to spend summers as kids.
She's still fierce, still fiery, and still my little sister's best friend.
I've made my home in Hanalei as a surf instructor after a career-ending knee injury.
And she was supposed to be getting married…
So why is she sunbathing on the adjoining porch, making my blood boil with desire?
I want to be angry with her for ruining our happily ever after.
But the pain in her eyes ignites my protective instincts.
Now she's reaching for me, not just for safety, but for the love we left unfinished.
Can we survive the second wave of love, or will this be our final wipeout?
Why you'll love it...
Retired NFL football player
Runaway Bride
Best Friend's Brother
Next Door Neighbor
Off Limits
Second Chance
Protective Hero
Running Towards You is a standalone full-length novel with tons of steamy longing and emotion. HEA guaranteed!
242 pages, Paperback
Published February 7, 2024
About the author
Ana Rhodes
7 books39 followersWant to stay up to date on all things Ana Rhodes? Get exclusive access to bonus content, cover reveals, excerpts, news and giveaways. Join her newsletter: https://bit.ly/anarhodesnewsletter
Hello! I'm Ana and I love writing swoony, small town romances with sweet, protective heroes who love their strong and sassy leading ladies. When I'm not writing, I'm reading... romances, of course! I'm a sucker for a good love story, and I hope you enjoy mine.
Let's stay in touch! Follow me on...
https://www.instagram.com/anarhodesauthor
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ana-rhodes
Hello! I'm Ana and I love writing swoony, small town romances with sweet, protective heroes who love their strong and sassy leading ladies. When I'm not writing, I'm reading... romances, of course! I'm a sucker for a good love story, and I hope you enjoy mine.
Let's stay in touch! Follow me on...
https://www.instagram.com/anarhodesauthor
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ana-rhodes
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 8, 2024
“Running Towards You” by Ana Rhodes is a second chance best friend’s brother romance, and it’s Cooper and Haley’s story.
Cooper and Haley’s relationship started a decade ago, but certain circumstances tore them apart. They haven’t seen each other since, but they’ve never forgotten that one summer - or managed to let go of their feelings.
After an injury ends his NFL career, Cooper ends back up on the island of Hanalei. Haley also ends up on Hanalei because she needed a place to escape to after something disastrous happens in her personal life.
I don’t think either of them expected to see each other again, especially after so long, but from their very first meeting, I could tell they had a long, complicated history. Cooper and Haley’s relationship did develop nicely over the course of the novel, although there was a lot of back and forth.
I thought Cooper was very protective of Haley, and it was obvious that he was completely and utterly in love with her. I thought Haley was the sweetest heroine, and she had a heart of gold. This was my first time reading something by Ana Rhodes, and I did enjoy it overall!
Cooper and Haley’s relationship started a decade ago, but certain circumstances tore them apart. They haven’t seen each other since, but they’ve never forgotten that one summer - or managed to let go of their feelings.
After an injury ends his NFL career, Cooper ends back up on the island of Hanalei. Haley also ends up on Hanalei because she needed a place to escape to after something disastrous happens in her personal life.
I don’t think either of them expected to see each other again, especially after so long, but from their very first meeting, I could tell they had a long, complicated history. Cooper and Haley’s relationship did develop nicely over the course of the novel, although there was a lot of back and forth.
I thought Cooper was very protective of Haley, and it was obvious that he was completely and utterly in love with her. I thought Haley was the sweetest heroine, and she had a heart of gold. This was my first time reading something by Ana Rhodes, and I did enjoy it overall!
February 6, 2024
When Haley walks in on her politician fiance cheating on her just minutes before they are due to say their vows, she realises she’s been lying to herself for years, settling for what she thinks she deserves rather than what she wants. What follows is a mad dash from the aisle that gets her the label ‘runaway bride’ in the media and an aeroplane ride to her happy place in Hawaii.
It’s in Hawaii that she reconnects not only with herself but also with her first love, Cooper. Things are a little bit awkward between the two, as he’s not only her first (and only) love but also her best friend’s brother, and neither of them has ever gotten over Haley breaking Cooper's heart.
I loved the gradual reconnection between the two. The different POVs helped highlight both of their worries and fears, as well as their growing attraction. We do eventually learn why Haley broke up with Cooper, and it changes everything, but no sooner have they overcome one situation than a storm rolls in, wreaking havoc and causing destruction.
The main focus is very much on the two main characters. The author doesn’t go into great detail about the area they are in, but from the sideline characters and the few world-building details that were given, I was able to imagine the community and how much it meant to them.
It’s in Hawaii that she reconnects not only with herself but also with her first love, Cooper. Things are a little bit awkward between the two, as he’s not only her first (and only) love but also her best friend’s brother, and neither of them has ever gotten over Haley breaking Cooper's heart.
I loved the gradual reconnection between the two. The different POVs helped highlight both of their worries and fears, as well as their growing attraction. We do eventually learn why Haley broke up with Cooper, and it changes everything, but no sooner have they overcome one situation than a storm rolls in, wreaking havoc and causing destruction.
The main focus is very much on the two main characters. The author doesn’t go into great detail about the area they are in, but from the sideline characters and the few world-building details that were given, I was able to imagine the community and how much it meant to them.
January 29, 2024
I want to thank @theauthor.agency and @anarhodesauthor for the digital copy of Running Towards You and in return I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. This book is a best friends brother, second chance romance. It has likeable characters, it's low on angst and drama. Is a slow burn with light spice and has a HEA. My rating is 3.5 stars.
Cooper Barclay, former QB of the NFL, has returned home to HI with a knee injury and has become a surfing instructor. His calm, quiet days has ended when he comes home to find his ex, his sisters best friend, soaking up some sun instead of on her honeymoon.
Haley Ellis left her groom at the altar when she finds him with his assistant in a comprising position, then she flies to HI to rediscover herself. She immediately discovered that within 60 seconds of being in the same vicinity as her ex and her best friends brother, that he's still hurt over their breakup 10 years ago.
Haley is lost and needs to find herself again, she's tired of men telling her what to do. Haley connects with some women in town and gets involved with the community center and art.
Cooper keeps a close eye on Haley and finds her when a hurricane hits the island and they end up confessing to feelings they never lost. But when opportunities are offered to them both will they allow the interference or will they fight for them this time around?
Cooper Barclay, former QB of the NFL, has returned home to HI with a knee injury and has become a surfing instructor. His calm, quiet days has ended when he comes home to find his ex, his sisters best friend, soaking up some sun instead of on her honeymoon.
Haley Ellis left her groom at the altar when she finds him with his assistant in a comprising position, then she flies to HI to rediscover herself. She immediately discovered that within 60 seconds of being in the same vicinity as her ex and her best friends brother, that he's still hurt over their breakup 10 years ago.
Haley is lost and needs to find herself again, she's tired of men telling her what to do. Haley connects with some women in town and gets involved with the community center and art.
Cooper keeps a close eye on Haley and finds her when a hurricane hits the island and they end up confessing to feelings they never lost. But when opportunities are offered to them both will they allow the interference or will they fight for them this time around?
February 14, 2024
Did not really like this book. I struggled to finish even though I wanted to dnf. I didn't feel anything for the characters or their so-called romance. I didn't feel a connection either.
February 6, 2024
Running Towards You
By Ana Rhodes
Running Towards You is a romance featuring Cooper, a former NFL player, and Haley, an elementary school art teacher. Cooper and Haley have a history from a summer during their college days when they fell in love on the island of Kauai, Hawaii where their parents bought adjoining bungalows to vacation during the summer. Since the romance is new, they both agree to keep it a secret, especially from Cooper’s sister, Tess, who is also Haley’s best friend. Without reason or explanation, Haley breaks Cooper’s heart and breaks up with him shortly after their summer fling and they’ve both been missing something in their lives ever since.
Fast forward to the future, and the opening of the book, we find Haley is about marry Marcus, an up-and-coming congressman. She has jitters and wants to talk to him before the ceremony to ease her nerves but what she finds when she seeks him out sends her in reeling in the sense that she is finally questioning what she’s doing with her life and if she wants to marry this man. Thank goodness Tess is her bridesmaid who offers to get her out of the situation, no questions asked & Haley takes her up on it. Tess gets Haley on a plane to Kauai immediately, promising to join her as soon as she can. What Haley doesn’t know is that Cooper is living there full-time and has been since his knee injury ended his NFL career.
The dynamic between Cooper and Haley once they see each other again in Hanalei is palpable – the feelings jumped out at me, and I immediately began rooting for them to rekindle their relationship! However, Cooper is still angry and hurt because of the breakup and Haley feels immensely guilty but finally admits to herself she has never stopped loving Cooper. Throughout this second-chance romance, Haley finds herself becoming healed by Hanalei, and Cooper, although she won’t admit it immediately. The community welcomes her in and Cooper finds himself as infatuated with her as he was the summer they fell in love. As with all romances, there are road blocks that threaten to prevent progress between our couple but together they can work through it – if Haley will only take the leap of faith to allow herself the happiness and accept the love being offered to her.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
BookishIG: @tequilamockingbirdlady
By Ana Rhodes
Running Towards You is a romance featuring Cooper, a former NFL player, and Haley, an elementary school art teacher. Cooper and Haley have a history from a summer during their college days when they fell in love on the island of Kauai, Hawaii where their parents bought adjoining bungalows to vacation during the summer. Since the romance is new, they both agree to keep it a secret, especially from Cooper’s sister, Tess, who is also Haley’s best friend. Without reason or explanation, Haley breaks Cooper’s heart and breaks up with him shortly after their summer fling and they’ve both been missing something in their lives ever since.
Fast forward to the future, and the opening of the book, we find Haley is about marry Marcus, an up-and-coming congressman. She has jitters and wants to talk to him before the ceremony to ease her nerves but what she finds when she seeks him out sends her in reeling in the sense that she is finally questioning what she’s doing with her life and if she wants to marry this man. Thank goodness Tess is her bridesmaid who offers to get her out of the situation, no questions asked & Haley takes her up on it. Tess gets Haley on a plane to Kauai immediately, promising to join her as soon as she can. What Haley doesn’t know is that Cooper is living there full-time and has been since his knee injury ended his NFL career.
The dynamic between Cooper and Haley once they see each other again in Hanalei is palpable – the feelings jumped out at me, and I immediately began rooting for them to rekindle their relationship! However, Cooper is still angry and hurt because of the breakup and Haley feels immensely guilty but finally admits to herself she has never stopped loving Cooper. Throughout this second-chance romance, Haley finds herself becoming healed by Hanalei, and Cooper, although she won’t admit it immediately. The community welcomes her in and Cooper finds himself as infatuated with her as he was the summer they fell in love. As with all romances, there are road blocks that threaten to prevent progress between our couple but together they can work through it – if Haley will only take the leap of faith to allow herself the happiness and accept the love being offered to her.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
BookishIG: @tequilamockingbirdlady
February 5, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up
Running Towards You by @anarhodesauthor tells the charming story of Haley and Cooper, former college lovers who have been separated by time and space for more than ten years following a nasty breakup after their summer fling in Hawaii. Haley, an elementary school art teacher finds herself ready to get married to a politician with national government potential when she gets wedding day jitters and seeks out her fiancé Marcus, only to find out he's been cheating on her with his assistant the entire time. With her best friend and maid of honor Tess at her side, Haley flees to the only place that feels safe to her, the vacation bungalow in Hawaii that her parents left to her when they both unexpectedly passed away. Needless to say, Haley doesn't know that she will run headfirst into the man she's been avoiding the past ten years after Cooper sustained an NFL career-ending injury to his knee.
I adored the romance between Cooper and Haley, as they worked through their second-chance romance, best-friend's-brother, and friends to lovers all at the same time. Cooper is an exceedingly kind, generous, and deserving man and he absolutely has Haley's best interests at heart. Haley is selfless, always thinking of others before herself as she finds ways to give back to the small Hawaiian town that has taken her in during the worst time in her life. Also, I additionally have to say that I appreciate the proper portrayal of Tess as a nurse in this book because as a registered nurse myself, book descriptions of hospitals or nurses are typically so far incorrect that I can't get past that detail in the story.
Running Towards You was a ⭐⭐⭐⭐.✨ star read from me with only half a star being taken off for Tess holding a grudge against Haley and Cooper for waiting until after the literal hurricane to tell her they had gotten together and wanted her to know. This was my first Ana Rhodes read and I cannot to read more of her work!
(I received an electronic ARC copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.)
Running Towards You by @anarhodesauthor tells the charming story of Haley and Cooper, former college lovers who have been separated by time and space for more than ten years following a nasty breakup after their summer fling in Hawaii. Haley, an elementary school art teacher finds herself ready to get married to a politician with national government potential when she gets wedding day jitters and seeks out her fiancé Marcus, only to find out he's been cheating on her with his assistant the entire time. With her best friend and maid of honor Tess at her side, Haley flees to the only place that feels safe to her, the vacation bungalow in Hawaii that her parents left to her when they both unexpectedly passed away. Needless to say, Haley doesn't know that she will run headfirst into the man she's been avoiding the past ten years after Cooper sustained an NFL career-ending injury to his knee.
I adored the romance between Cooper and Haley, as they worked through their second-chance romance, best-friend's-brother, and friends to lovers all at the same time. Cooper is an exceedingly kind, generous, and deserving man and he absolutely has Haley's best interests at heart. Haley is selfless, always thinking of others before herself as she finds ways to give back to the small Hawaiian town that has taken her in during the worst time in her life. Also, I additionally have to say that I appreciate the proper portrayal of Tess as a nurse in this book because as a registered nurse myself, book descriptions of hospitals or nurses are typically so far incorrect that I can't get past that detail in the story.
Running Towards You was a ⭐⭐⭐⭐.✨ star read from me with only half a star being taken off for Tess holding a grudge against Haley and Cooper for waiting until after the literal hurricane to tell her they had gotten together and wanted her to know. This was my first Ana Rhodes read and I cannot to read more of her work!
(I received an electronic ARC copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.)
January 27, 2024
🔥Small Town
🔥 Second Chance
🔥 Forced Proximity
🔥 Next Door Neighbor
🔥 Off Limits
🔥 Best Friend's Brother
🔥 Runaway Bride
🔥 Football Player/NFL
🔥 Protective Hero
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️
"Running Towards You" by Ana Rhodes explores the complexities of love, second chances, and the rekindling of a past romance. The story revolves around Haley Ellis and Cooper’s first love and the love of his life. A steamy summer fling comes to an abrupt end, leaving a void in Cooper’s life. When Haley returns to Hanalei, the surf town where their connection blossomed during childhood summers, old feelings resurface.
The narrative introduces the tension of Haley being the best friend of Cooper's little sister, adding an extra layer of complexity to their renewed connection. Cooper has rebuilt his life in Hanalei as a surf instructor following a career-ending knee injury. However, Haley's return disrupts the equilibrium, especially considering she was supposed to be getting married.
The conflicting emotions of desire and anger come to the forefront as Cooper grapples with Haley's unexpected presence. The pain in her eyes triggers protective instincts, leading to a second chance at love. The story raises questions about whether they can survive the challenges of a renewed romance or if this reunion will result in a final wipeout.
Readers who enjoy stories of reunited lovers, emotional conflict, and the complexities of navigating past and present emotions may find "Running Towards You" an engaging and emotionally charged read.
🔥 Second Chance
🔥 Forced Proximity
🔥 Next Door Neighbor
🔥 Off Limits
🔥 Best Friend's Brother
🔥 Runaway Bride
🔥 Football Player/NFL
🔥 Protective Hero
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️
"Running Towards You" by Ana Rhodes explores the complexities of love, second chances, and the rekindling of a past romance. The story revolves around Haley Ellis and Cooper’s first love and the love of his life. A steamy summer fling comes to an abrupt end, leaving a void in Cooper’s life. When Haley returns to Hanalei, the surf town where their connection blossomed during childhood summers, old feelings resurface.
The narrative introduces the tension of Haley being the best friend of Cooper's little sister, adding an extra layer of complexity to their renewed connection. Cooper has rebuilt his life in Hanalei as a surf instructor following a career-ending knee injury. However, Haley's return disrupts the equilibrium, especially considering she was supposed to be getting married.
The conflicting emotions of desire and anger come to the forefront as Cooper grapples with Haley's unexpected presence. The pain in her eyes triggers protective instincts, leading to a second chance at love. The story raises questions about whether they can survive the challenges of a renewed romance or if this reunion will result in a final wipeout.
Readers who enjoy stories of reunited lovers, emotional conflict, and the complexities of navigating past and present emotions may find "Running Towards You" an engaging and emotionally charged read.
February 6, 2024
My ARC review for Running Towards You by Ana Rhodes
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🥵🥵
Running Towards You is a heart-warming second-chance romance between Haley and Cooper. Haley leaves her not so great groom at the altar and runs back to the small Hawaiian town where she spent her childhood summers. She soon realizes her ex, Cooper (who is also her best friend's brother) is living in the bungalow next door. Cooper is living in Hanalei full time now and teaching surf lessons to tourists after a knee injury ended his successful football career. Returning home after a lesson one day, Cooper finds a familiar face sunbathing next door. After a rough start, they soon start to rekindle their relationship while also revealing a few secrets in the process. This is definitely a fast-paced read that will pull at your heartstrings.
Usually I read dark romance or fantasy, so this was a great palate cleanser for me. I really enjoyed this, and it was nice to read something that was just sweet. The small town with a tight-knit community was probably one of my favorite things about this story, along with the nosy locals. Highly recommend.
This book has
- Second chance romance
- Best friend's brother
- Small town vibes with nosy locals
- Retired football player
- Forced proximity
- Runaway bride
Thank you to Ana Rhodes and The Author Agency for my ARC 🖤
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🥵🥵
Running Towards You is a heart-warming second-chance romance between Haley and Cooper. Haley leaves her not so great groom at the altar and runs back to the small Hawaiian town where she spent her childhood summers. She soon realizes her ex, Cooper (who is also her best friend's brother) is living in the bungalow next door. Cooper is living in Hanalei full time now and teaching surf lessons to tourists after a knee injury ended his successful football career. Returning home after a lesson one day, Cooper finds a familiar face sunbathing next door. After a rough start, they soon start to rekindle their relationship while also revealing a few secrets in the process. This is definitely a fast-paced read that will pull at your heartstrings.
Usually I read dark romance or fantasy, so this was a great palate cleanser for me. I really enjoyed this, and it was nice to read something that was just sweet. The small town with a tight-knit community was probably one of my favorite things about this story, along with the nosy locals. Highly recommend.
This book has
- Second chance romance
- Best friend's brother
- Small town vibes with nosy locals
- Retired football player
- Forced proximity
- Runaway bride
Thank you to Ana Rhodes and The Author Agency for my ARC 🖤
February 5, 2024
Small town, Runaway Bride, First Love, Second Chance, Best Friend's brother, I think that covers the many tropes that this book has going on. This was a fast paced book that had me wondering how things were going to work out between Haley and Cooper.
Haley wakes up and realizes that she is about to make a huge mistake marrying Marcus. She runs off to a small town in Hawaii to hide away from the press but runs into the last person she thought she would see. Cooper and Haley briefly dated when they were younger but she broke his heart and he never really got over it. When the two are forced to be in the same space for a moment they both realize that the feelings they had back then are still there. Throw in a sleazy sports agent, and slimy ex and there is some drama coming at them from both sides.
This was an enjoyable read with some wonderful writing. One click now to find out if Haley and Cooper really can get their happily ever after.
By Alisa
Haley wakes up and realizes that she is about to make a huge mistake marrying Marcus. She runs off to a small town in Hawaii to hide away from the press but runs into the last person she thought she would see. Cooper and Haley briefly dated when they were younger but she broke his heart and he never really got over it. When the two are forced to be in the same space for a moment they both realize that the feelings they had back then are still there. Throw in a sleazy sports agent, and slimy ex and there is some drama coming at them from both sides.
This was an enjoyable read with some wonderful writing. One click now to find out if Haley and Cooper really can get their happily ever after.
By Alisa
February 7, 2024
4 ⭐️
2 🔥
Runaway Bride
Island Living
Small Town
Community
Best Friend’s Brother
Second Chance
Protective MMC
Football Player MMC
No Third Act Break Up
Characters is there 30s
This book was so good! Ana did a great job within a small amount of pages. This book is only about 250 pages and I truly felt like it was the perfect length for the story. This had everything I love about small town, but in an island community. Haley & Cooper had a secret relationship during college, but something happened that torn them apart. Haley was set to marry a scumbag, but runs away with her best friend. She then ends up back on the island where she spent her summers growing, right next door to her college sweetheart who is recovering from an injury. The trouble? He’s her Best Friend’s Brother and she left him. This is their second chance!
Thank you Ana Rhodes and The Author Agency for the ARC!
2 🔥
Runaway Bride
Island Living
Small Town
Community
Best Friend’s Brother
Second Chance
Protective MMC
Football Player MMC
No Third Act Break Up
Characters is there 30s
This book was so good! Ana did a great job within a small amount of pages. This book is only about 250 pages and I truly felt like it was the perfect length for the story. This had everything I love about small town, but in an island community. Haley & Cooper had a secret relationship during college, but something happened that torn them apart. Haley was set to marry a scumbag, but runs away with her best friend. She then ends up back on the island where she spent her summers growing, right next door to her college sweetheart who is recovering from an injury. The trouble? He’s her Best Friend’s Brother and she left him. This is their second chance!
Thank you Ana Rhodes and The Author Agency for the ARC!
February 10, 2024
The vibes in this book were amazing. This story follows Haley and Cooper. These two dated years ago and were all over each other. Haley returns to Hawaii after a scandalous breakup with an up and coming politician. When she sees Cooper again, it’s like no time has passed. Second chance romances are a tricky trope because reigniting a flame is difficult. But Haley and Cooper never stopped loving each other. Haley and Cooper were perfect for each other because Haley is selfless and Cooper is a ray of sunshine. Their miscommunication was justified because they had each other’s best interest at heart. When they finally talked, I was truly smiling. And after that they put right communication at the tippyity top of their priority list. And the spice was amazing.
* I received an ARC. All of my opinions are my own.
* I received an ARC. All of my opinions are my own.
July 6, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️ 🌶️. 5
This was a very sweet second chance romance.
Haley is running away from her wedding straight to a small island where her parents have a small bungalow.
She needs to find herself again and get over her betrayal. What she wasn't prepared for is her love of her life to be at his bungalow next door.
Cooper had retired from with injury and was trying to rebuild his life again. This place has bittersweet memories of his love of his life. What he wasn't ready for was to see her here after so long and she broke his heart. 10 years apart and their love has never wavered.
Storybof self discovery, rebuilding, small town love, finding happiness again and falling back in love. Great banter amongst the community, friendship, found family, love and spice.
Great easy to read and very entertaining.
🌶️ 🌶️. 5
This was a very sweet second chance romance.
Haley is running away from her wedding straight to a small island where her parents have a small bungalow.
She needs to find herself again and get over her betrayal. What she wasn't prepared for is her love of her life to be at his bungalow next door.
Cooper had retired from with injury and was trying to rebuild his life again. This place has bittersweet memories of his love of his life. What he wasn't ready for was to see her here after so long and she broke his heart. 10 years apart and their love has never wavered.
Storybof self discovery, rebuilding, small town love, finding happiness again and falling back in love. Great banter amongst the community, friendship, found family, love and spice.
Great easy to read and very entertaining.
January 29, 2024
4/5 stars!!
"I am not better without you. If anything, I am less of a man without you."
Haley runs out on her wedding when she catches her fiancé doing something he shouldn’t with someone that’s not her and ends up in the closest place she has to call home. Coincidentally, Cooper did the same thing two years prior due to a fatal injury that paused his NFL career. They were in love once, but something pulled them apart. Could this be their second chance to get things right?
Spoiler alert, yes it is ♡ this absolutely has a beautiful HEA and though it got a bit repetitive at times and is a bit predictable, it is such a cute second chance romance. Sometimes you need familiar to feel like you're home. The tension and plot was nicely paced and kept me on my toes til the end.
I also loved the small town community feel, it adds so much added beauty to the story and did not disappoint. I definitely recommend this cute, quick read. I received a copy of this and am leaving this honest review voluntarily <3
"I am not better without you. If anything, I am less of a man without you."
Haley runs out on her wedding when she catches her fiancé doing something he shouldn’t with someone that’s not her and ends up in the closest place she has to call home. Coincidentally, Cooper did the same thing two years prior due to a fatal injury that paused his NFL career. They were in love once, but something pulled them apart. Could this be their second chance to get things right?
Spoiler alert, yes it is ♡ this absolutely has a beautiful HEA and though it got a bit repetitive at times and is a bit predictable, it is such a cute second chance romance. Sometimes you need familiar to feel like you're home. The tension and plot was nicely paced and kept me on my toes til the end.
I also loved the small town community feel, it adds so much added beauty to the story and did not disappoint. I definitely recommend this cute, quick read. I received a copy of this and am leaving this honest review voluntarily <3
January 30, 2024
Haley and Cooper
They fell in love one summer. After their parents buy vacation houses next to eachother in Hawaii, every summer Haley and her family and her best friend Tess and her family would spend the summer together. After many summers, tess is spring her vacation studying abroad so it’s just Haley and her best friends older brother, Cooper. This is the summer that they fall in love! Then everything falls apart…. Haley leaves him and never gives a reason as to why.
Now years later Haley is running away from her cheater of a fiancé and running back to ,cooper. Although she had no lodes that he would be at the Hawaii house when she was going. They end up getting know know one another again and spending their times together and ultimately falling back in love, but realizing they never fell out of love 🥰.
This was a very cute story of your best friend brother trope! It was a quick easy to read and easy to love book!
They fell in love one summer. After their parents buy vacation houses next to eachother in Hawaii, every summer Haley and her family and her best friend Tess and her family would spend the summer together. After many summers, tess is spring her vacation studying abroad so it’s just Haley and her best friends older brother, Cooper. This is the summer that they fall in love! Then everything falls apart…. Haley leaves him and never gives a reason as to why.
Now years later Haley is running away from her cheater of a fiancé and running back to ,cooper. Although she had no lodes that he would be at the Hawaii house when she was going. They end up getting know know one another again and spending their times together and ultimately falling back in love, but realizing they never fell out of love 🥰.
This was a very cute story of your best friend brother trope! It was a quick easy to read and easy to love book!
February 4, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️
🔥Small Town
🔥 Second Chance
🔥 Next Door Neighbor
🔥 Off Limits
🔥 Best Friend's Brother
🔥 Runaway Bride
🔥 Football Player/NFL
🔥 Protective Hero
✍🏻 Favorite Quote ✍🏻
"I love her more than anything—more than football, more than my name in lights, more than the money. And you took that away."
A great second chance at love. A very mild spicy. A happy feel good read MFC gets her justice and conquers her fears.
Who doesn't want to run away to an island and find yourself? These two had me feeling all the things. Heart broken for the young love that was shattered and then so happy when they found each other. Both have gone through life altering changes and still find themselves, running back.
🌶️
🔥Small Town
🔥 Second Chance
🔥 Next Door Neighbor
🔥 Off Limits
🔥 Best Friend's Brother
🔥 Runaway Bride
🔥 Football Player/NFL
🔥 Protective Hero
✍🏻 Favorite Quote ✍🏻
"I love her more than anything—more than football, more than my name in lights, more than the money. And you took that away."
A great second chance at love. A very mild spicy. A happy feel good read MFC gets her justice and conquers her fears.
Who doesn't want to run away to an island and find yourself? These two had me feeling all the things. Heart broken for the young love that was shattered and then so happy when they found each other. Both have gone through life altering changes and still find themselves, running back.
February 6, 2024
Can you really forget your first love? Or when a love story ends is it really over? Running towards you It is a fast paced story that immediately makes you root for Hailey and Cooper especially because we would all like to have a second chance especially when we understand that we have made a wrong decision in our past and especially if life gives us another chance, we what we will do? I loved the setting in Hawaii but also the fact that it's nice to read when two people, despite the wounds of the past, don't put walls around each other and start to get to know each other again and maybe fall in love again? Maybe? I won't tell you anything... Such a beautiful story that makes the heart feel good... A book that is impossible not to love.
Tropes you find...
Retired NFL football player
Runaway Bride
Best Friend's Brother
Next Door Neighbor
Off Limits
Second Chance
Protective Hero
Rating 5⭐
Spicy 🌶️🌶️. 5
Tropes you find...
Retired NFL football player
Runaway Bride
Best Friend's Brother
Next Door Neighbor
Off Limits
Second Chance
Protective Hero
Rating 5⭐
Spicy 🌶️🌶️. 5
February 8, 2024
Running Towards You is a second chance, best friend's brother, runaway bride story.
Cooper was a player in the NFL until an injury brought him back to the islands to rehab, and he eventually became a surfing instructor. He had not intended to make Hanalei his home. Haley has made a bad choice and becomes a runaway bride. She escapes to Hanalei to hide out, not expecting the man she gave up ten years ago to be her neighbor.
Will Haley and Cooper find their way back to each other? Will the hurts of years past be to much and make them never more than friends, if that?
I enjoyed my first book by Ana Rhodes. It is an easy read with likable characters. The story will warm your heart.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Cooper was a player in the NFL until an injury brought him back to the islands to rehab, and he eventually became a surfing instructor. He had not intended to make Hanalei his home. Haley has made a bad choice and becomes a runaway bride. She escapes to Hanalei to hide out, not expecting the man she gave up ten years ago to be her neighbor.
Will Haley and Cooper find their way back to each other? Will the hurts of years past be to much and make them never more than friends, if that?
I enjoyed my first book by Ana Rhodes. It is an easy read with likable characters. The story will warm your heart.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
February 8, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Oh, I love a second chance romance and when the characters grab your heart like these two, it’s all the better. I’m new to Ana Rhodes, but this was a brilliant introduction to her writing.
Young lovers, Haley and Cooper, ended in heartbreak when she walked away at the end of summer.
Cooper has come home to start a new life after injury ended his football career.
Haley comes back after finding her now ex-fiancé cheating.
Their love is still there, but so is the hurt. (Have the tissues handy 😉).
A lovely journey of healing and forgiveness, slow burn with nice spice, a little angst, tension, emotion, a captivating story and a beautiful HEA.
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency.
Oh, I love a second chance romance and when the characters grab your heart like these two, it’s all the better. I’m new to Ana Rhodes, but this was a brilliant introduction to her writing.
Young lovers, Haley and Cooper, ended in heartbreak when she walked away at the end of summer.
Cooper has come home to start a new life after injury ended his football career.
Haley comes back after finding her now ex-fiancé cheating.
Their love is still there, but so is the hurt. (Have the tissues handy 😉).
A lovely journey of healing and forgiveness, slow burn with nice spice, a little angst, tension, emotion, a captivating story and a beautiful HEA.
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency.
February 2, 2024
Haley catches her groom cheating right before the wedding. She leaves him at the alter and runs to the island bungalow where she spent summers that she recently inherited from her parents. Her ex lives next-door and they have never gotten over each other, but can they make it work this time?
This was a second chance, best friend’s brother romance that was really good. The characters were great, except for Marcus. The romance between Haley and Cooper was heartwarming with only a little bit of spice. If you like second chance romances you will enjoy this one. I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more by Ana Rhodes.
This was a second chance, best friend’s brother romance that was really good. The characters were great, except for Marcus. The romance between Haley and Cooper was heartwarming with only a little bit of spice. If you like second chance romances you will enjoy this one. I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more by Ana Rhodes.
February 6, 2024
Haley and Cooper aren’t perfect. But there is so much reality to their relationship. I love the whole best friend’s brother trope and Haley and Cooper made my heart swoon. I’m not usually a fan of second chance romances, mostly because I usually think that there’s no one in the books that deserves a second chance, but I think that this book and this story executed the second chance romance very well. The runaway bride aspect of this story was slightly unexpected but GOOD FOR HER! I hate cheaters. Especially in books. They are the worst. Honestly, if you enjoy second chance romances or best friend’s brother, then this is the book for you! Loved this.
February 6, 2024
Haley becomes a runaway bride after finding her fiancé cheating on her just MINUTES before walking down the aisle. To avoid the media and process what just happened she goes straight from the ceremony to the airport and heads to her parent’s bungalow in Hawaii.
Unknown to Haley, her best friend’s older brother, Cooper, is the permanent resident of the bungalow right next store. The problem is 10 years ago Haley broke Cooper’s heart but neither has stopped loving each other.
Will Cooper be able to get over his heartbreak and forgive Haley? Can they be friends or even lovers? Will the man Haley left at the alter come for her?
So much to discover in this amazing Second Chance book!
Unknown to Haley, her best friend’s older brother, Cooper, is the permanent resident of the bungalow right next store. The problem is 10 years ago Haley broke Cooper’s heart but neither has stopped loving each other.
Will Cooper be able to get over his heartbreak and forgive Haley? Can they be friends or even lovers? Will the man Haley left at the alter come for her?
So much to discover in this amazing Second Chance book!
February 3, 2024
Anna Rhodes' 'Running Towards You' unfolds as a beautiful tale of second chances and love, weaving through the protagonist's journey of turning negative experiences into something positive. The story explores her discovery of both self-acceptance and love, set against a backdrop of suspense and mystery that keeps you eagerly turning the pages. I devoured this book within 24 hours, captivated by its spice and charm. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a comfortable yet thrilling second chance romance, especially if it involves a best friend's brother. Absolutely amazing
February 4, 2024
A second chance romance for Haley and Cooper. After Haley literally runs out on her wedding, she flys to her an old vacation home she shared with her parents in Hawaii. There she runs into her secret ex boyfriend Cooper who happens to be her best friends brother. She left him 10 years ago and OMG the reason why is totally shocking! Another great book I’ve read by Ana Rhodes and if you want to know why Haley left cooper you need to read this book. Love Haley and Cooper ❤️.
February 6, 2024
I simply devoured Running Towards You by Ana Rhodes. Best friend's brother is very popular right now and Haley and Cooper's story definitely stands out. After catching her groom in a very compromising position on their wedding day, Haley takes off for Hawaii. Cooper has been in love with Haley for years so when they when they meet again, will this be there second chance? Well written and definitely recommended!
February 7, 2024
This was a wonderful second chance romance and I loved the dynamic between Haley and Cooper. Haley left her cheating fiancé and went back home to refresh and ran into her brother’s best friend and secret fling Cooper and they reconnected and fell in love again. This was a very sweet and short story that I quickly devoured and would recommend to anyone who enjoys second chance, small town or brother’s best friend romance tropes.
February 13, 2024
This is Cooper and Haley’s journey.
This is a well written easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with runaway bride, brother’s best friend, first love, healing, second chances, revelations, engaging and realistic characters, heartbreak, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy addictive page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a well written easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with runaway bride, brother’s best friend, first love, healing, second chances, revelations, engaging and realistic characters, heartbreak, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy addictive page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2024
These characters made me feel all of the things!
Haley is a runaway bride after catching her politician ex-fiance cheating on her minutes before their wedding. She runs back to her cottage in Hawaii and runs right into the ex she could never get over who also happens to be her best friend’s brother.
Cooper made Hawaii his home after a career ending injury took Football away from him. He’s never gotten over the love of his life and what made her walk away from their love. The last thing he is expecting is for her to show up next door like no time has passed.
They dance around each other and tears are shed over what could have been and the hurt they both feel over the way things ended. I thought Ana did an amazing job at showing the healing process for both of them as truths are revealed and scheming ex’s try to skew the facts.
I laughed, I cried, and simply enjoyed the story of Cooper and Haley.
Haley is a runaway bride after catching her politician ex-fiance cheating on her minutes before their wedding. She runs back to her cottage in Hawaii and runs right into the ex she could never get over who also happens to be her best friend’s brother.
Cooper made Hawaii his home after a career ending injury took Football away from him. He’s never gotten over the love of his life and what made her walk away from their love. The last thing he is expecting is for her to show up next door like no time has passed.
They dance around each other and tears are shed over what could have been and the hurt they both feel over the way things ended. I thought Ana did an amazing job at showing the healing process for both of them as truths are revealed and scheming ex’s try to skew the facts.
I laughed, I cried, and simply enjoyed the story of Cooper and Haley.
February 6, 2024
This is a cute second chance romance. Haley and Cooper dated in college and split right before Cooper went into the NFL. 10 years later, Haley is a runaway bride and ends up running all the way to her family's vacation home, right next to where Cooper currently resides.
Cute story, hate 3rd act breakups for just the sake of drama, but utimately a good read if you can get passed that.
Cute story, hate 3rd act breakups for just the sake of drama, but utimately a good read if you can get passed that.
February 3, 2024
Read if you like:
🔥Small Town
🔥Second Chance
🔥Forced Proximity
🔥Next Door Neighbor
🔥Off Limits
🔥Best Friend's Brother
🔥Runaway Bride
🔥Football Player/NFL
🔥Protective Hero
My Rating is 3.75 stars
I love a book that doesn't have a 3rd act breakup so that will always bump the rating up for me. However, this book does have the miscommunication trope which I loathe which is where the 3.75 stars come into play.
I love Cooper in this book. Cooper is a former NFL player who moved to a small town in Hawaii. He found community, purpose and family in this town. What he didn't expect to see was Haley the one he loved who left.
Haley is a runaway bride. She runs from her wedding and gets on a plane to her family vacation home in Hawaii. What/who she doesn't expect to see is Cooper.
I love Cooper. The way this man wears his heart on his sleeve and communicates his feelings/wants while also being protective of those he cares for. Even though Haley hurt him when she left he will still do anything to protect her. I loathe the miscommunication trope and really felt it was unfair for Haley to hold that in for as long she did (especially when Cooper asked her why quite a few times). If you are ok with the miscommunication trope then this book is for you. It was a really quick romance read and I was happy for Haley and Cooper to get their HEA.
Thank you to The Author Agency for the arc of this book and Ana Rhodes.
🔥Small Town
🔥Second Chance
🔥Forced Proximity
🔥Next Door Neighbor
🔥Off Limits
🔥Best Friend's Brother
🔥Runaway Bride
🔥Football Player/NFL
🔥Protective Hero
My Rating is 3.75 stars
I love a book that doesn't have a 3rd act breakup so that will always bump the rating up for me. However, this book does have the miscommunication trope which I loathe which is where the 3.75 stars come into play.
I love Cooper in this book. Cooper is a former NFL player who moved to a small town in Hawaii. He found community, purpose and family in this town. What he didn't expect to see was Haley the one he loved who left.
Haley is a runaway bride. She runs from her wedding and gets on a plane to her family vacation home in Hawaii. What/who she doesn't expect to see is Cooper.
I love Cooper. The way this man wears his heart on his sleeve and communicates his feelings/wants while also being protective of those he cares for. Even though Haley hurt him when she left he will still do anything to protect her. I loathe the miscommunication trope and really felt it was unfair for Haley to hold that in for as long she did (especially when Cooper asked her why quite a few times). If you are ok with the miscommunication trope then this book is for you. It was a really quick romance read and I was happy for Haley and Cooper to get their HEA.
Thank you to The Author Agency for the arc of this book and Ana Rhodes.
February 7, 2024
I absolutely loved every word of this story. This is my fave book from Ana to date, and I've loved them all. The setting, the characters, the story, it's all absolutely perfect for a cover to cover read.
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