Bloom Town: Exodus by Ally North is the stunning sequel to Bloom Town: Genesis, and it delivers an even deeper, more emotional ride that left me breathless. Picking up right where the first book left off, BT Exodus wastes no time plunging us back into the Wild West, as Abby Proctor races against time to save Joey “JT London,” the outlaw who has captured her heart.
Transparently, I got these books because the covers were too gorgeous to pass up, and after reading the synopsis, it was one of the fastest one-clicks of my life. Little did I know how much I would fall in love with this series. Ally North has truly cemented herself as a must-read author for me, and BT Exodus solidifies her mastery of storytelling, character development, and romance.
One of the many things I loved about this book is how it brings the West to life. North’s world-building is impeccable, making you feel the vastness of the desert, the grit of the chase, and the danger lurking around every corner. But as with BT Genesis, this novel is so much more than just a romance. It’s about found family, resilience, and the power of choice. North continues to show how the family you choose can bring more love and peace than the one you’re born into, and that theme is woven beautifully into every character’s journey.
The character development in BT Exodus might even richer than in the first book. Is that possible?! Abby truly shines in this one—her strength, grit, and determination leap off the page as she steps fully into her power. Abby’s evolution from a preacher’s daughter running from oppression to a fiercely independent woman building the life and family she chooses is nothing short of inspiring. Her ability to handle the aftereffects of trauma and still pursue love and freedom is a testament to the resilience of womanhood, and I admired her so much throughout the book.
And then there’s Joey—my strong, broody, sexy, wounded outlaw. Her growth in BT Exodus was stunning to watch. Joey is still that complex, magnetic character who had me swooning in BT Genesis, but seeing her vulnerability and healing journey in this sequel made me fall for her even harder. Have I mentioned I have the BIGGEST crush on her? Because I do! Her character arc is beautifully written, and the push and pull between her and Abby had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Of course, this book wouldn’t be complete without its sizzling romance. The slow burn in BT Exodus is INTENSE. The chemistry between Abby and Joey is undeniable, and the way North builds it up is nothing short of masterful. The spice and steam are off the charts—from slow burn re-connection to dirty talk and praise kink (in a historical novel—YES PLEASE), this book delivers on every level. The passion between these two characters is scorching, but it’s the emotional depth of their connection that truly sets the romance apart.
BT Exodus also dives deep into the aftermath of trauma, and North handles these themes with incredible care. The way Abby, Jack, Olive, and Lewis grapple with their pasts while trying to carve out a future together makes this an emotional roller coaster of a read. And let me tell you—the ending? Oh. My. Gosh. Ally North broke me into pieces and then lovingly pieced me back together with this conclusion.
"My pieces aren't gone, they're scattered. Find them for me? Put them back together" - OH MY HEART!!!!!!!
It’s a satisfying, beautiful HEA, but getting there is a journey that will leave you breathless.
I can’t recommend this series enough. Ally North has a new die-hard fan in me. Bloom Town is one of my top 5 reads this year, and I’ll be talking about this series forever. I’m not even ashamed to admit that I devoured both books in a matter of DAYS. I immediately started book two the second I closed book one.
If you’re a fan of sapphic western romance, clear your weekend and get both Bloom Town: Genesis and Exodus. Trust me—you’re going to want to dive right in and experience this unforgettable love story. I need more work from Ally North like yesterday!!