Coming Home

by Sundae Leighton

What if the truth destroys us both?

Leaving North Carolina five years ago was the best thing that ever happened to me. I never planned to return. Yet here I am, back where the ghosts still haunt me — where I ruined everything and left a piece of myself behind that I’ve never gotten back.

Cole Whitaker was destined for hockey greatness, while I would never be more than a mediocre ballet dancer.

He is absolute perfection on ice.

I’m drowning in a sea of lies.

Cole wants answers I’m not ready to give. But I’m too tired, too weak — I can’t fight him any longer.

Terrified of what might happen, I’m forced to face my fears… and the boy I left behind.

*This books contains an eating disorder, suicidal/depressive thoughts and talks of self-harm. Please read at your own discretion.*

Unknown Binding

Published March 30, 2026

About the author

Sundae Leighton writes romance novels that are sweet with a dark twist. She got her start writing fanfiction with her friends in school, but didn’t take the plunge to publish her first book (Picture Perfect) until 2020. Born and raised in Connecticut, where she currently resides with her husband and their cats. She sometimes scares herself when she writes things darker than intended, considers coffee the nectar of the Gods, and once ran the NYC marathon (OK - half marathon). When she isn’t writing down what the voices in her head tell her to, she likes watching murder shows, NASCAR, and reading romance books with lots of dark angst.

You can keep in touch with Sundae at SundaeLeighton.com and find her on most social media platforms.

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Reviews

[Mikaela (risqué.romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coming Home - Sundae Leighton
4.25/5✨🌟

* SPOILERS *

This is the first book by Sundae that I’ve ever read as she’s been on my list for quite some time. I was certainly not disappointed by the outcome of this book.

I love a meet cute book and this hit all the spots. Sure, it has its cute moments but this book has some other aspects like hurt/comfort and mental health stuff going on.

I love how they both started as pen pals when they were in high school and then discovered themselves years later. The way they got together was so cute because when Cole got jealous of Reed dancing. That was the breaking point where they had me hooked in this story.

There is so much character and relationship building. Usually, sometimes I get bored with side characters but they were all connected in the best way possible. I love found family and this one had me sucked in. Even the parents had me intrigued by their own relationships as well.

Also, I need Zach’s story as soon as possible because that’s going to be a whirlwind for sure. I definitely went through so many emotions for this book and I was here for every moment even when these two got so stubborn. It all turned out pretty well.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Tasha Thrall · Rating 3 out of 5]

This narrative is truly captivating—deeply emotional and centered around mental health. Be sure to review the trigger warnings before diving in.

Reed and Cole began their correspondence as pen pals at the age of 16. As they grew older, their communication transitioned to social media.

One evening, during Cole's father's wedding, he stepped outside for some fresh air and unexpectedly encountered someone special. Their connection was destined, but being young, they struggled with communication. Ultimately, they fight for each other in the end.

[judith vaughan · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I absolutely adore Sundae Leightons books and this one is perfection. Reed and Cole have to be the cutest couple (Sorry Leo and Andy) but there's just something about them Reed gets into my heart and i feel for him and Cole I could feel the heartbreak through the pages. If you have never read a Sundae Leighton book grab Coming Home today.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried, I smiled through tears for Cole and Reed. Their story was more than falling in love. It was a story of passion, hardship, and learning to forgive and love yourself. It was beautiful. I was equally happy for Zach, and I am curious how his family deals with his relationship.

I read and reviewed a copy of this book.

[VicReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝙲𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙷𝚘𝚖𝚎

𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠

4/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶️

↓↓
Well if this wasn't the cutest meet cute I've read in awhile🥹 pen pals, seriously

There was so many emotions while reading this. Reed and Cole went through it to find their happiness but I think it was worth it in the end.

Also can I get Zach's book like pronto, I know it's going to a good read!

[L KQ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overcoming Odds

Reed and Cole meet and are immediately captivated with one another. This story is extremely emotional and intense as mental health issues and insecurities make it difficult for them. Overcoming it all was a great part of the plot and brought Cole and Reed closer together. It was a beautiful read thatbkept me invested until the very end.

I am voluntarily leaving this review.