What do you think?
Rate this book
The Spring Grove #2
Small-Town Sweetheart
Delaney Abbot has never wanted to live anywhere other than Spring Grove, Kentucky. She loves the town, the people, and the whiskey made right down the road at McElroy’s Distillery. If only she could find a man in her beloved small town worthy of all that love she has to give.
The first thing Reed McElroy did when he finished high school was get the heck out of Spring Grove, Kentucky. He’s happy with his life as a veterinarian in the big city, and he would just as soon never step foot in his small town again.
Delaney has had a crush on Reed since she was knee-high to a grasshopper, but he never looked at her the same way. Now that tragedy has dragged him back home kicking and screaming, Reed has no choice but to make peace with a past clouded by small-mindedness and judgment. He is forced to see his hometown through grown-up eyes, and everywhere he looks, he finds local sweetheart Delaney. It seems like everyone in Spring Grove loves her. So, why shouldn’t he?
The first thing Reed McElroy did when he finished high school was get the heck out of Spring Grove, Kentucky. He’s happy with his life as a veterinarian in the big city, and he would just as soon never step foot in his small town again.
Delaney has had a crush on Reed since she was knee-high to a grasshopper, but he never looked at her the same way. Now that tragedy has dragged him back home kicking and screaming, Reed has no choice but to make peace with a past clouded by small-mindedness and judgment. He is forced to see his hometown through grown-up eyes, and everywhere he looks, he finds local sweetheart Delaney. It seems like everyone in Spring Grove loves her. So, why shouldn’t he?
ebook
First published September 25, 2018
159 people are currently reading
810 people want to read
About the author
Toni Aleo
85 books6,728 followersWALL STREET JOURNAL, NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BEST SELLING AUTHOR TONI ALEO IS AN AUTHOR YOU CAN'T MISS!
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
September 25, 2018
Small-Town Sweetheart (The Spring Grove Series Book 2) by Toni Aleo
Delaney found her home at a young age. Reed is still searching for his. After years away, Reed returns to the place that started him on his quest. Spring Grove is hardly big city living, but it has a few surprises in store. Could love be on the horizon for the small town girl and her big city guy? Small Town Sweetheart is a reminder to appreciate the little things and never forget where you come from. Aleo takes the slow route to love, but boy is it a sweet ride.
Delaney found her home at a young age. Reed is still searching for his. After years away, Reed returns to the place that started him on his quest. Spring Grove is hardly big city living, but it has a few surprises in store. Could love be on the horizon for the small town girl and her big city guy? Small Town Sweetheart is a reminder to appreciate the little things and never forget where you come from. Aleo takes the slow route to love, but boy is it a sweet ride.
September 20, 2018
Toni takes us to the small town of Spring Grove to give us a sweet romantic read to fall in love with. All. The. Feels. It’s a low angst, sweet romance with a side of second chances. This is a story that you won’t want to put down and will leave a smile on your face well past the last page. It’s a fun, sexy read that will have you laughing and swooning cheering for the happily ever after.
February 6, 2022
Rating: 3.25/5
Review to come!
Review to come!
September 24, 2018
This is the second book of the series but can be read as a stand alone. Spring Grove is a small town and the book brings with it all the quirky, nosey, teasing secondary characters that make the book so entertaining.
It's a sweet romance about two seemingly outcasts. Reed's family is a pillar of this small community but he was always on the outside looking in. And Delaney, although the town sweetheart, was on the inside thinking what she had on the outside was not good enough. Hearts are going to get all tangled up in this one. Lots of feels for the history between these two.
A delightful read. Light second chance romance between two adults with a close connection in their youth. Great mix of s3xy times and conversation between these two. Loved the whole thing. Can't wait to see if Reed's brothers may get their HEA as well. I would love to visit with the good folks of Spring Grove again in the near future. '
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
It's a sweet romance about two seemingly outcasts. Reed's family is a pillar of this small community but he was always on the outside looking in. And Delaney, although the town sweetheart, was on the inside thinking what she had on the outside was not good enough. Hearts are going to get all tangled up in this one. Lots of feels for the history between these two.
A delightful read. Light second chance romance between two adults with a close connection in their youth. Great mix of s3xy times and conversation between these two. Loved the whole thing. Can't wait to see if Reed's brothers may get their HEA as well. I would love to visit with the good folks of Spring Grove again in the near future. '
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
September 19, 2018
The second book in the series set in a small town. Reed escaped Spring Grove at the first opportunity but now the death of his father has brought him home. Delaney was one of the boys, she always had a crush on him but he was completely clueless. When they meet again things have changed and he sees the beautiful woman he's now attracted to. This was an enjoyable fun story to read with enough heat between the main characters to start a fire.
September 27, 2018
Fun, mindless entertainment. This was the second in the series and finds Reed returning to Spring Grove for his father's funeral. Delaney is the girl who hung out with him as a kid and had a huge crush on him. Reed left the town with the thought of never returning, but his father's will requests that he stay for 8 weeks. Of course that's long enough for sparks to fly. There's loads of humor in this and plenty of heat between Reed and Del.
Review of ARC provided by author
Review of ARC provided by author
September 25, 2018
*4 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first Toni Aleo book, and it won’t be my last. We meet the characters in their hometown of Spring Grove, which is by all accounts a classic small town.
We have Reed, the hometown boy who was desperate to leave as soon as he could, and hasn’t been back for a very long time, and Delaney, the hometown sweetheart, who is a huge part of the heart and soul of the town. Also, these two grew up together in the same friendship circle.
So of course, inevitable attraction is bound to come in and play a part. But can it bring these two together for good, or will it keep them apart, with Reeds desperate need to stay away from Spring Grove?
I liked these main characters, and I enjoyed getting to know them through glimpses of their past as well. Delaney at times to me seemed a little too up herself in a way, but by the end once you got to know her, I think its just her being more of a matter of fact type personality. Reed is the typical broody/silent type, but he's adorable deep down. Boy oh boy that man.
Watching things play out between these two was both lots of fun and incredible frustrating. As a reader you have a fairly good feeling of whats going to happen, and what you want to happen, but you’re not quite sure, and as such really need to find out whats going to transpire in the end.
I also really liked the secondary characters. The friendship circle these guys have from their school/childhood days is great, and then add in Reeds Mum, and Delaneys MawMaw, and there are some sweet and also hilarious scenes with these guys.
I look forward to reading more about these characters in the future.
Review also on my blog - Small Town Sweetheart - Toni Aleo
Follow me on:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first Toni Aleo book, and it won’t be my last. We meet the characters in their hometown of Spring Grove, which is by all accounts a classic small town.
We have Reed, the hometown boy who was desperate to leave as soon as he could, and hasn’t been back for a very long time, and Delaney, the hometown sweetheart, who is a huge part of the heart and soul of the town. Also, these two grew up together in the same friendship circle.
So of course, inevitable attraction is bound to come in and play a part. But can it bring these two together for good, or will it keep them apart, with Reeds desperate need to stay away from Spring Grove?
I liked these main characters, and I enjoyed getting to know them through glimpses of their past as well. Delaney at times to me seemed a little too up herself in a way, but by the end once you got to know her, I think its just her being more of a matter of fact type personality. Reed is the typical broody/silent type, but he's adorable deep down. Boy oh boy that man.
Watching things play out between these two was both lots of fun and incredible frustrating. As a reader you have a fairly good feeling of whats going to happen, and what you want to happen, but you’re not quite sure, and as such really need to find out whats going to transpire in the end.
I also really liked the secondary characters. The friendship circle these guys have from their school/childhood days is great, and then add in Reeds Mum, and Delaneys MawMaw, and there are some sweet and also hilarious scenes with these guys.
I look forward to reading more about these characters in the future.
Review also on my blog - Small Town Sweetheart - Toni Aleo
Follow me on:
September 25, 2018
I have read a couple of books from this author but she keeps on blowing me away. This is the second book in the Spring Groove series. This book can be read as a stand alone but there are prior characters in this book as well. I absolutely love small town romance but this talented author exceeded all my expectations. You will fall in love with these characters right from the beginning. It only took me a little over a day to devour this incredible story.
Delaney Abbot loves her small town in Kentucky. She is the towns sweetheart and everyone loves her so why can’t she find someone to love her back? Delaney keeps on finding these men that don’t want more like she does. When she finds out her childhood crush Reed McElroy is in town she is excited. She quickly realizes that the boy she used to know changed from being in a big city. Delaney still has these feelings for Reed that will not go away but does he feel the same way?
I absolutely loved this book. The storyline has it all romance, struggles, and healing. You will fall in love with these characters right from the start. Delaney is a beautiful young woman with a heart of gold. She is the perfect small town girl but she can also bring the sass. Reed is a very handsome man that has some struggles in his life but it makes him stronger. I loved that this book was written in both characters points of views. This makes you feel more of an emotional connection to them. This talented author will keep you at the edge of your seat until the very end. I thought the ending was perfect. I can’t wait to see what she will write for us next.
Delaney Abbot loves her small town in Kentucky. She is the towns sweetheart and everyone loves her so why can’t she find someone to love her back? Delaney keeps on finding these men that don’t want more like she does. When she finds out her childhood crush Reed McElroy is in town she is excited. She quickly realizes that the boy she used to know changed from being in a big city. Delaney still has these feelings for Reed that will not go away but does he feel the same way?
I absolutely loved this book. The storyline has it all romance, struggles, and healing. You will fall in love with these characters right from the start. Delaney is a beautiful young woman with a heart of gold. She is the perfect small town girl but she can also bring the sass. Reed is a very handsome man that has some struggles in his life but it makes him stronger. I loved that this book was written in both characters points of views. This makes you feel more of an emotional connection to them. This talented author will keep you at the edge of your seat until the very end. I thought the ending was perfect. I can’t wait to see what she will write for us next.
September 19, 2018
I don't know how I would describe this book other than it's ridiculously cute. It gives you second chance vibes. It made me want to grow up in a small town and have friends that I've known for such a long period of time. This story is about Delaney and Reed.
Delaney has been in love with Reed for as long as she remembers. Reed has always seen her as just one the guys. He cared for her but never allowed himself to let his feeling go further simply because he hated his small town. The death of his father brings him back to the one place he can't stand. I thought it was brilliant how his father did the will. Sometimes, children really do need to be shoved by their parents. During his time back home, he reconnects with her. They have this burning connection that neither of them can ignore. As the story goes on, they fall in love. Well, Delaney has been in love with him but Reed just needed to catch up. What's that saying again about boys developing later than girls. I loved all of their moments together. I freaking LOVED Mawmaw. I wished I had has mine. I cried laughing when she was making the sex signs with her hands. Also, when Delaney fell into the pool. I need to learn to stop eating while I read to prevent me spitting my food out when I laugh. My favorite scene was at the end of the book. When he was going to walk away but didn't. He just needed a moment to recap. Toni, you never disappoint me. I'm pretty sure this women-only writes gold. I hope she continues with the siblings.
I hope you all enjoyed it. It ends in an HEA.
Delaney has been in love with Reed for as long as she remembers. Reed has always seen her as just one the guys. He cared for her but never allowed himself to let his feeling go further simply because he hated his small town. The death of his father brings him back to the one place he can't stand. I thought it was brilliant how his father did the will. Sometimes, children really do need to be shoved by their parents. During his time back home, he reconnects with her. They have this burning connection that neither of them can ignore. As the story goes on, they fall in love. Well, Delaney has been in love with him but Reed just needed to catch up. What's that saying again about boys developing later than girls. I loved all of their moments together. I freaking LOVED Mawmaw. I wished I had has mine. I cried laughing when she was making the sex signs with her hands. Also, when Delaney fell into the pool. I need to learn to stop eating while I read to prevent me spitting my food out when I laugh. My favorite scene was at the end of the book. When he was going to walk away but didn't. He just needed a moment to recap. Toni, you never disappoint me. I'm pretty sure this women-only writes gold. I hope she continues with the siblings.
I hope you all enjoyed it. It ends in an HEA.
September 27, 2018
‘Small Town Sweetheart’ is the second book of ‘Spring Grove’ series but it can be read as a standalone. However, I totally recommend you to read the first book of the series ‘Not the One’. If you already read it, you are familiar with our heroine Delaney Kate Abbot. Delaney has spent all her life in Spring Grove. After her mom abandoned her, she was raised by her grandmother, Mawmaw, who I adore. Delaney is known as town’s sweetheart and she loves the town and helps everyone in it.
Reed was not as lucky as Delaney. Town people always treated him poorly. Reed Andrew McElroy is the heir of town’s distillery but he never wanted to do anything with it. Other than wanting to leave Spring Grove since he was a young, he always wanted to be a vet. So right after graduating from high school, he left town and never went back until his dad passed away. Now he has to go back to the town that never welcomed him but he has a plan. Get in, attend funeral and get out. But as always nothing goes as planned. Thanks to Mr. McElroy’s will, Reed needs to live in Spring Grove for 6 weeks and give town that treated him poorly another chance and claim his inheritance or he can leave and kiss his inheritance bye bye.
Everything in Spring Grove is just the way Reed left, well maybe not. One thing that changed and got Reed’s attention the moment he set his eyes on is Delaney. The girl he grew up with and kept calling ‘Chubs’ is now a beautiful, sexy woman, who he cannot take his eyes off. Poor Delaney does not have any luck when it comes to man. She always ends up with cheaters or guys that are not right for her. Reed, the guy she wanted and loved all her whole life, is now back in town. So when Reed makes a move on her, she gets confused. She doesn’t think she is good enough for him. But the attraction and desire between them is undeniable. So when they decide to have a fling for 6 weeks, their story takes a new turn. Will Delaney be enough to make Reed want to stay in the town? Will people’s attitude change towards Reed? That is for you to find out.
‘Small Town Sweetheart’ by is everything you want in a romance novel; emotional, sexy, sweet, funny and heartwarming. IT WAS AMAZINGLY PERFECT!!! Also I cannot pass without mentioning the secondary characters, they are all amazing. Delaney’s cousin Holden and sister Cataway, Reed’s siblings; Devin, Bryce and Ambrosia. There are more books to come and I cannot wait to read their stories.
Would I recommend this book: Yes.
Would I re-read this book: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
e-ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
The review was originally posted on: http://miabookaddict.com/
Reed was not as lucky as Delaney. Town people always treated him poorly. Reed Andrew McElroy is the heir of town’s distillery but he never wanted to do anything with it. Other than wanting to leave Spring Grove since he was a young, he always wanted to be a vet. So right after graduating from high school, he left town and never went back until his dad passed away. Now he has to go back to the town that never welcomed him but he has a plan. Get in, attend funeral and get out. But as always nothing goes as planned. Thanks to Mr. McElroy’s will, Reed needs to live in Spring Grove for 6 weeks and give town that treated him poorly another chance and claim his inheritance or he can leave and kiss his inheritance bye bye.
Everything in Spring Grove is just the way Reed left, well maybe not. One thing that changed and got Reed’s attention the moment he set his eyes on is Delaney. The girl he grew up with and kept calling ‘Chubs’ is now a beautiful, sexy woman, who he cannot take his eyes off. Poor Delaney does not have any luck when it comes to man. She always ends up with cheaters or guys that are not right for her. Reed, the guy she wanted and loved all her whole life, is now back in town. So when Reed makes a move on her, she gets confused. She doesn’t think she is good enough for him. But the attraction and desire between them is undeniable. So when they decide to have a fling for 6 weeks, their story takes a new turn. Will Delaney be enough to make Reed want to stay in the town? Will people’s attitude change towards Reed? That is for you to find out.
‘Small Town Sweetheart’ by is everything you want in a romance novel; emotional, sexy, sweet, funny and heartwarming. IT WAS AMAZINGLY PERFECT!!! Also I cannot pass without mentioning the secondary characters, they are all amazing. Delaney’s cousin Holden and sister Cataway, Reed’s siblings; Devin, Bryce and Ambrosia. There are more books to come and I cannot wait to read their stories.
Would I recommend this book: Yes.
Would I re-read this book: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
e-ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
The review was originally posted on: http://miabookaddict.com/
September 26, 2018
****4 STARS****
****ARC Received for Honest Review****
This story was a breath of fresh air kinda of story….one that makes you heart melt and think about romance and the way it is found in places you have tried to leave behind.
Delaney is the type of girl who is the apple of the small town’s eye, she is loved and adored. She loved her hometown and all of the people in it, but when Reed left so long ago, he took a piece of her with him. But now Reed is back, and has to face some serious baggage about his small town, and the judgement that is everyones faces. He must navigate why had to come back home, his feelings about being there, and the grown up Delaney he left behind. Can he handle everything and survive the pull of Delaney.-Review by Catherine(Catty)
****ARC Received for Honest Review****
This story was a breath of fresh air kinda of story….one that makes you heart melt and think about romance and the way it is found in places you have tried to leave behind.
Delaney is the type of girl who is the apple of the small town’s eye, she is loved and adored. She loved her hometown and all of the people in it, but when Reed left so long ago, he took a piece of her with him. But now Reed is back, and has to face some serious baggage about his small town, and the judgement that is everyones faces. He must navigate why had to come back home, his feelings about being there, and the grown up Delaney he left behind. Can he handle everything and survive the pull of Delaney.-Review by Catherine(Catty)
September 26, 2018
Small-Town Sweetheart, book 2 in the Spring Grove series, was a fun and quick read. Loved it!
Delaney, the town sweetheart, is sassy, independent and looking for love. And then she see’s the one boy she’s always loved is back in town. And man does she give him a run for his money! Absolutely loved her and her confidence!
Reed left town as soon as he could and didn’t look back until being called back to town to settle his fathers estate.
If you’re looking for a fun, small town read then I totally recommend this book!
Love how Toni makes the words flow and sucks me right into her stories!
Can’t wait to see what she comes out with next, hopefully Cataway and Devins story!
Delaney, the town sweetheart, is sassy, independent and looking for love. And then she see’s the one boy she’s always loved is back in town. And man does she give him a run for his money! Absolutely loved her and her confidence!
Reed left town as soon as he could and didn’t look back until being called back to town to settle his fathers estate.
If you’re looking for a fun, small town read then I totally recommend this book!
Love how Toni makes the words flow and sucks me right into her stories!
Can’t wait to see what she comes out with next, hopefully Cataway and Devins story!
October 26, 2018
This one really feel flat for me and the main reason for that was Reed. I didn’t like how he looked down at the town and how he kept everyone at arms length. I also hated how he treated Delaney, first when he saw her and later when they started something up. Delaney called it towards the end, she was only good enough for short term, not for long term. I was really glad that she called Reed out on that.
I also hated that Delaney was disappoint with how the the election went. I do feel like Reed was right in his sentiment there.
I also hated that Delaney was disappoint with how the the election went. I do feel like Reed was right in his sentiment there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2018
Small Town Sweetheart is just what the name implies. Delaney is the town sweetheart of Spring Grove always willing to lend a hand where it’s needed. Reed couldn’t wait to leave, but an unfortunate tragedy brings him back to the town he never wanted to return to. Delaney’s crush is back in town, a successful veterinarian who looks better than ever. I loved this book, it will definitely keep you turning the pages until the very end. It is a must-read!
October 6, 2018
I just love small town romance! Follow the story of Delaney & Reed! She's crushed on him forever, and when he returns to Spring Grove for his dads funeral and reading of his will, he finally see's Delaney as the beautiful grown woman that she is.
Read along as their love grows, I enjoyed this story very much! 4 1/2 stars for this one! I love Toni's small town books!! Grab it now!
Read along as their love grows, I enjoyed this story very much! 4 1/2 stars for this one! I love Toni's small town books!! Grab it now!
September 13, 2021
That was a bullshit ending!!! Ugh I’m so mad. I should say I loved the story and everything about it was great it was just the one thing that I’m with Reed and know something is up! Also I’d loved to get more books about Reeds siblings.
September 19, 2018
Set in the small town of Spring Grove, Kentucky we meet Delaney Kate. Delaney has lived in Spring Grove her whole life. She loves Spring Grove, it’s all she’s ever known.after being abandoned by her mother and raised by her grandmother to say she has some self worth issues would be an understatement. Delaney hops from one man to another desperate to find true love.
Having grown up in Spring Grove as well, Reed had the opposite experience and the first chance he got, he left. Leaving everything and everyone behind. Having established himself as a good vet in the big city, Reed has no plans of ever going back. Until one day Reed gets the call that no son wants. His dad has passed and he needs to come home for the funeral.
Coming back to Spring Grove, Reed sees that absolutely nothing has changed, well almost nothing. Upon first spotting Delaney, Reed can’t believe his eyes. She’s definitely not the chubby little girl that would follow Reed and his friends around everywhere. She’s a total knock out. Too bad he’s only town for the funeral and the reading of the will.
In a twist of fate, Reeds father has a stipulation in his will. For Reed to have access to his money, he’ll have to give the town who treated him poorly another chance. spend six weeks in Spring Grove and actually live and participate in the towns activities.
While Staying in Spring Grove, Reed can’t seem to stay away from Delaney. She’s still the same person who he knew and was infatuated with from before but also a different. Delaney has always been in love with Reed. When he finally makes the first move she can’t help but think this is her shot.
Will Delaney be enough to make Reed want to stay in the town that all but treated him like shit. Or will Reeds past prejudices overcome his love and desire to be with Delaney. Well you’ll just have to read to find out.
I love these types of books and Toni does it well. This book doesn’t have a theme to it really. Sure it’s romance novel but usually romance novels are sub categorized. Like sports romances. It’s a romance but a sport is the underlying theme and in some cases out shadows the romance. Same with paranormal romances and the action and plot twists.
With a straight up romance novel set in a small town, it strips the romance genre down to the studs. And if an author is good enough then the book will be a hit. Well Toni Aleo hit it out of the park just like her character Delaney.
Having grown up in Spring Grove as well, Reed had the opposite experience and the first chance he got, he left. Leaving everything and everyone behind. Having established himself as a good vet in the big city, Reed has no plans of ever going back. Until one day Reed gets the call that no son wants. His dad has passed and he needs to come home for the funeral.
Coming back to Spring Grove, Reed sees that absolutely nothing has changed, well almost nothing. Upon first spotting Delaney, Reed can’t believe his eyes. She’s definitely not the chubby little girl that would follow Reed and his friends around everywhere. She’s a total knock out. Too bad he’s only town for the funeral and the reading of the will.
In a twist of fate, Reeds father has a stipulation in his will. For Reed to have access to his money, he’ll have to give the town who treated him poorly another chance. spend six weeks in Spring Grove and actually live and participate in the towns activities.
While Staying in Spring Grove, Reed can’t seem to stay away from Delaney. She’s still the same person who he knew and was infatuated with from before but also a different. Delaney has always been in love with Reed. When he finally makes the first move she can’t help but think this is her shot.
Will Delaney be enough to make Reed want to stay in the town that all but treated him like shit. Or will Reeds past prejudices overcome his love and desire to be with Delaney. Well you’ll just have to read to find out.
I love these types of books and Toni does it well. This book doesn’t have a theme to it really. Sure it’s romance novel but usually romance novels are sub categorized. Like sports romances. It’s a romance but a sport is the underlying theme and in some cases out shadows the romance. Same with paranormal romances and the action and plot twists.
With a straight up romance novel set in a small town, it strips the romance genre down to the studs. And if an author is good enough then the book will be a hit. Well Toni Aleo hit it out of the park just like her character Delaney.
September 19, 2018
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
What a fantastic addition to the Spring Grove series! I love small town romances and this one was no exception!
Delaney has spent her life in Spring Grove and while she has always had great friends, she's never had the love life that she would have liked back in high school or now. Not to mention she was crushing on one of her closest friends, Reed, throughout her childhood and high school years and she knew he had no idea that she was. As a teenager, she was a fuller figured girl and as she got older, she lost a great deal of weight not only for herself, but also to maybe one day be able to catch the eye of that one guy who always eluded her. It just seems that every time she dates someone new, they end up cheating on her or they end up being the wrong person for her.
Reed left town when he was eighteen, which was his plan. He never wanted to work at his family's distillery, he always wanted to be a vet and work with animals. He moved away, went to school and then started working with one of his college friends at his vet office. It isn't until Reed's father unexpectedly passes away that he is forced to head back to Spring Grove to face not only his grief, but the town that he hasn't missed at all since he left.
When Reed and Delaney reconnect, they pick up right where they left off years ago. They spar with one another and tease, but underneath, Del is still pining for Reed. Reed wants to be home for the funeral and then get back to his regular life in Lexington, but what he doesn't know is that his father has very different plans for him. Will it turn out that this is a case of the old adage "father knows best" or will the plans that Reed's father left for him make him turn tail and run again?
I loved the way the relationship developed between Del and Reed. It seemed very organic to me and yet very small town at the same time with all the meddling, gossip and mishaps! Their chemistry was great and I also loved all of the secondary characters. I'm really looking forward to what might be in store for some of the other resident's of Spring Grove in the future! Do yourself a favor and pick up this great work by Toni Aleo!
What a fantastic addition to the Spring Grove series! I love small town romances and this one was no exception!
Delaney has spent her life in Spring Grove and while she has always had great friends, she's never had the love life that she would have liked back in high school or now. Not to mention she was crushing on one of her closest friends, Reed, throughout her childhood and high school years and she knew he had no idea that she was. As a teenager, she was a fuller figured girl and as she got older, she lost a great deal of weight not only for herself, but also to maybe one day be able to catch the eye of that one guy who always eluded her. It just seems that every time she dates someone new, they end up cheating on her or they end up being the wrong person for her.
Reed left town when he was eighteen, which was his plan. He never wanted to work at his family's distillery, he always wanted to be a vet and work with animals. He moved away, went to school and then started working with one of his college friends at his vet office. It isn't until Reed's father unexpectedly passes away that he is forced to head back to Spring Grove to face not only his grief, but the town that he hasn't missed at all since he left.
When Reed and Delaney reconnect, they pick up right where they left off years ago. They spar with one another and tease, but underneath, Del is still pining for Reed. Reed wants to be home for the funeral and then get back to his regular life in Lexington, but what he doesn't know is that his father has very different plans for him. Will it turn out that this is a case of the old adage "father knows best" or will the plans that Reed's father left for him make him turn tail and run again?
I loved the way the relationship developed between Del and Reed. It seemed very organic to me and yet very small town at the same time with all the meddling, gossip and mishaps! Their chemistry was great and I also loved all of the secondary characters. I'm really looking forward to what might be in store for some of the other resident's of Spring Grove in the future! Do yourself a favor and pick up this great work by Toni Aleo!
September 25, 2018
Delaney Abbot has lived in Spring Groves all of her life and is known around town for her kind ways and her contagious smile. She is also known to have terrible luck with finding a good man that treats her right and wants to love her.
After ditching Spring Groves at the first opportunity after high school, Reed McElroy was bound and determined to never set foot in the small town ever again, that is until his father passes away unexpectedly. Being a family man, he has no choice but to go back to Spring Groves and mourn the death of his beloved father.
Soon after returning to his hometown, Reed can feel the dirty looks and gossip that are directed his way. He was always the black sheep in his family, and was treated poorly by the townsfolk. He has a run-in with his old friends and is surprised to discover how much Delaney has changed over the years. They welcome him back with open arms, and are determined to help him to achieve the dying wishes of his father.
The minute Reed fulfills his fathers requests, he is high-tailing his way out of town. The more time that he spends with Delaney, the small-town sweetheart, the more they begin to fall for each other. During the short time that they have together, Delaney's love for Reed that she had while growing up together begins to reignite. Will Delaney finally have a shot at capturing Reeds heart after lusting over him for years? Or will he leave her broken hearted and alone just as he did so many years ago?
(I received an ARC of Small-Town Sweetheart from Toni Aleo in exchange for my honest review.)
Small-Town Sweetheart is the classic tale of two kids that grew up together that find love after years apart. Reed and Delaney's story is heart-warming and sweet. Both of them have never truly experienced love until fate brought them together again and shows them what real happiness is like. You'll love this hometown romance with a happily-ever-after ending!
After ditching Spring Groves at the first opportunity after high school, Reed McElroy was bound and determined to never set foot in the small town ever again, that is until his father passes away unexpectedly. Being a family man, he has no choice but to go back to Spring Groves and mourn the death of his beloved father.
Soon after returning to his hometown, Reed can feel the dirty looks and gossip that are directed his way. He was always the black sheep in his family, and was treated poorly by the townsfolk. He has a run-in with his old friends and is surprised to discover how much Delaney has changed over the years. They welcome him back with open arms, and are determined to help him to achieve the dying wishes of his father.
The minute Reed fulfills his fathers requests, he is high-tailing his way out of town. The more time that he spends with Delaney, the small-town sweetheart, the more they begin to fall for each other. During the short time that they have together, Delaney's love for Reed that she had while growing up together begins to reignite. Will Delaney finally have a shot at capturing Reeds heart after lusting over him for years? Or will he leave her broken hearted and alone just as he did so many years ago?
(I received an ARC of Small-Town Sweetheart from Toni Aleo in exchange for my honest review.)
Small-Town Sweetheart is the classic tale of two kids that grew up together that find love after years apart. Reed and Delaney's story is heart-warming and sweet. Both of them have never truly experienced love until fate brought them together again and shows them what real happiness is like. You'll love this hometown romance with a happily-ever-after ending!
September 25, 2018
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Delaney and Reed are absolutely magical! I have loved every book Toni has written and this one is no exception. She has the knack to actually make you feel like you are transported right into the town of Spring Grove. I truly wish all of Toni's books were movies! They are that engaging.
Reed McElroy always felt like an outcast in Spring Grove, even though he was part of the most well-known family in town. He hated everyone knowing his business and left town as soon as he could. After some devastating news, he finds himself back in Spring Grove anxious to return "home" to his normal and perfect life in Lexington. He wants no part of this small town life but his dad had other plans for Reed, hoping to open Reed's eyes to what (and who) he has been missing all these years without even realizing it.
Delaney Abbott is the epitome of the town sweetheart, kind and helpful to everyone in town but she is very unlucky in love and her selection of available and decent men around town is dwindling. As a child, Delaney was a chubby girl, always hanging out with her cousin, Holden, and his group of friends, which included Reed McElroy. Seeing Reed again after many years makes Delaney realize her feelings for him still linger and she hopes that she can make Reed take notice of her now that she has lost weight and is a grown woman. Unknown to Delaney, Reed always saw her and definitely notices her when they meet up again. Is Reed willing to let Delaney and Spring Grove into his heart for good or will he give it all up for his "perfect and normal" life he has built in Lexington?
The characters in this book are so real and funny, I cannot wait to see what happens next in Spring Grove. I love, love love this book!
Delaney and Reed are absolutely magical! I have loved every book Toni has written and this one is no exception. She has the knack to actually make you feel like you are transported right into the town of Spring Grove. I truly wish all of Toni's books were movies! They are that engaging.
Reed McElroy always felt like an outcast in Spring Grove, even though he was part of the most well-known family in town. He hated everyone knowing his business and left town as soon as he could. After some devastating news, he finds himself back in Spring Grove anxious to return "home" to his normal and perfect life in Lexington. He wants no part of this small town life but his dad had other plans for Reed, hoping to open Reed's eyes to what (and who) he has been missing all these years without even realizing it.
Delaney Abbott is the epitome of the town sweetheart, kind and helpful to everyone in town but she is very unlucky in love and her selection of available and decent men around town is dwindling. As a child, Delaney was a chubby girl, always hanging out with her cousin, Holden, and his group of friends, which included Reed McElroy. Seeing Reed again after many years makes Delaney realize her feelings for him still linger and she hopes that she can make Reed take notice of her now that she has lost weight and is a grown woman. Unknown to Delaney, Reed always saw her and definitely notices her when they meet up again. Is Reed willing to let Delaney and Spring Grove into his heart for good or will he give it all up for his "perfect and normal" life he has built in Lexington?
The characters in this book are so real and funny, I cannot wait to see what happens next in Spring Grove. I love, love love this book!
September 26, 2018
This small town sweetheart and broody vet have my heart.
Delaney Abbott is know as Spring Cove's sweetheart. She loves her small Kentucky town and everyone in it loves her. She helps out all the business in town, attends church every Sunday with her mawmaw and is hoping to find a man that isn't a loser. Delaney is happy with her life. Content. But with the reappearance of the man who Delaney has loved her whole life, Reed McElroy, Del's emotions are thrown into a tornado. Of lust, love, hope and hate. All over the man who has been a dream to her.
Reed McElroy has always felt like an outsider in the town of Spring Cove. He felt he never fit in, even though he had a great family and group of friends, Reed could not wait get out. He yearned for more. And he keeps telling himself he found that. But when Reed comes back to his hometown to heal, he wonders if he ever really found that more he was searching for. Especially with Delaney Abbott stealing his breath and his every waking moment since being back.
Reed and Delaney both have plans for their futures, but they have to decided if those things they want are enough, if they can't have them together.
Small Town Sweetheart was so funny and sexy and oh so sweet. I never wanted to leave the town of Spring Cove. I wanted so much more of Delaney & Reed. The romance and chemistry between the two burned up the pages. I laughed and cheered and swooned with this couple.
Delaney, the curvy bombshell, with her sassy mouth and sweet heart. I LOVE her. And super sexy Reed, with his stand off attitude and quite moments, grabbed my attention the most. I loved his growth, his big animal loving heart and dirty mouth. And together you couldn't ask for a better, more epic book couple.
·I was provided a ARC by L. Woods PR·
*JordansBookReviews*
Delaney Abbott is know as Spring Cove's sweetheart. She loves her small Kentucky town and everyone in it loves her. She helps out all the business in town, attends church every Sunday with her mawmaw and is hoping to find a man that isn't a loser. Delaney is happy with her life. Content. But with the reappearance of the man who Delaney has loved her whole life, Reed McElroy, Del's emotions are thrown into a tornado. Of lust, love, hope and hate. All over the man who has been a dream to her.
Reed McElroy has always felt like an outsider in the town of Spring Cove. He felt he never fit in, even though he had a great family and group of friends, Reed could not wait get out. He yearned for more. And he keeps telling himself he found that. But when Reed comes back to his hometown to heal, he wonders if he ever really found that more he was searching for. Especially with Delaney Abbott stealing his breath and his every waking moment since being back.
Reed and Delaney both have plans for their futures, but they have to decided if those things they want are enough, if they can't have them together.
Small Town Sweetheart was so funny and sexy and oh so sweet. I never wanted to leave the town of Spring Cove. I wanted so much more of Delaney & Reed. The romance and chemistry between the two burned up the pages. I laughed and cheered and swooned with this couple.
Delaney, the curvy bombshell, with her sassy mouth and sweet heart. I LOVE her. And super sexy Reed, with his stand off attitude and quite moments, grabbed my attention the most. I loved his growth, his big animal loving heart and dirty mouth. And together you couldn't ask for a better, more epic book couple.
·I was provided a ARC by L. Woods PR·
*JordansBookReviews*
September 23, 2018
While reading, “Not the One,” the first in the Spring Grove Series by Toni Aleo, all I could think was, this Delaney chick is amaze-balls, and I cannot wait to read her story. As always, Toni did not disappoint. Delaney’s sweet and sassy charm made “Small-Town Sweetheart,” an absolute joy to read. She was completely relatable but also a complete role model. Reed was a little more hit or miss for me. Some moments I loved him and at other moments I really wanted to hit him over the head and call him an idiot. The chemistry Toni was able to capture was heartwarming and heart wrenching (re Reed’s idiot-ness). I really loved everything about this book. I couldn’t put it down. It made me feel good in my heart to read this book, not only for the love story of Boy Meets Girl, but Girl Loves Town.
I love the idea of small town life in Spring Grove and it cast of crazy characters. Mawmaw had me in stitches pretty much every time she made an appearance. Toni Aleo not only created a love story, but she developed an entire world we only saw glimpses of in the first book of the series, and I, for one, cannot wait to see more of Spring Grove, and I will be waiting with bated breath for the stories of Holden, Cataway, Bryce, Ambrosia, and Devin.
I love the idea of small town life in Spring Grove and it cast of crazy characters. Mawmaw had me in stitches pretty much every time she made an appearance. Toni Aleo not only created a love story, but she developed an entire world we only saw glimpses of in the first book of the series, and I, for one, cannot wait to see more of Spring Grove, and I will be waiting with bated breath for the stories of Holden, Cataway, Bryce, Ambrosia, and Devin.
September 24, 2018
You need to pick up this little gem by Toni Aleo!!
Absolutely fantastic read. And it is hard not to fall in love with Spring Grove and its residents. Not to mention Reed and Del! It is the second installment in the Spring Grove series and I felt like we were really able to get a clear image of what this town looks and feels like this time around.
This book starts with a hot bang (pun intended) and really builds up nice and steady throughout the read. The story is sweet, heartwarming, funny and it certainly doesn't lack Toni's usual spunk and sarcasm, which always brings a little something extra to the characters. In this book, we witness Reed being caught between the life he can have and the one he thinks makes him happy. But in the end home is, indeed, where the heart is! Delany has such a great personality and Toni really nailed it with this character being a perfect hometown sweetheart. She is super sweet but has just enough backbone and temper to balance it out. How she is and feels is ULTRA relatable for many women I think, which only made me appreciate her more! Also, I loved that she is a badass ball player. I love how Toni really makes it a point to write female characters that are independent, self sufficient, real, but also vulnerable. There has not been one of her female protagonists that have struck me as "too perfect" or "not relatable" and that is why I continue to adore the stories she gifts us with.
Sooooo, if you have a few hours to kill? A long flight? Insomnia? Dont look too far. All you need to do is add this book to your library and have a whole lot of fun reading it. Enjoy!
Absolutely fantastic read. And it is hard not to fall in love with Spring Grove and its residents. Not to mention Reed and Del! It is the second installment in the Spring Grove series and I felt like we were really able to get a clear image of what this town looks and feels like this time around.
This book starts with a hot bang (pun intended) and really builds up nice and steady throughout the read. The story is sweet, heartwarming, funny and it certainly doesn't lack Toni's usual spunk and sarcasm, which always brings a little something extra to the characters. In this book, we witness Reed being caught between the life he can have and the one he thinks makes him happy. But in the end home is, indeed, where the heart is! Delany has such a great personality and Toni really nailed it with this character being a perfect hometown sweetheart. She is super sweet but has just enough backbone and temper to balance it out. How she is and feels is ULTRA relatable for many women I think, which only made me appreciate her more! Also, I loved that she is a badass ball player. I love how Toni really makes it a point to write female characters that are independent, self sufficient, real, but also vulnerable. There has not been one of her female protagonists that have struck me as "too perfect" or "not relatable" and that is why I continue to adore the stories she gifts us with.
Sooooo, if you have a few hours to kill? A long flight? Insomnia? Dont look too far. All you need to do is add this book to your library and have a whole lot of fun reading it. Enjoy!
September 24, 2018
You need to pick up this little gem by Toni Aleo!!
Absolutely fantastic read. And it is hard not to fall in love with Spring Grove and its residents. Not to mention Reed and Del! It is the second installment in the Spring Grove series and I felt like we were really able to get a clear image of what this town looks and feels like this time around.
This book starts with a hot bang (pun intended) and really builds up nice and steady throughout the read. The story is sweet, heartwarming, funny and it certainly doesn't lack Toni's usual spunk and sarcasm, which always brings a little something extra to the characters. In this book, we witness Reed being caught between the life he can have and the one he thinks makes him happy. But in the end home is, indeed, where the heart is! Delany has such a great personality and Toni really nailed it with this character being a perfect hometown sweetheart. She is super sweet but has just enough backbone and temper to balance it out. How she is and feels is ULTRA relatable for many women I think, which only made me appreciate her more! Also, I loved that she is a badass ball player. I love how Toni really makes it a point to write female characters that are independent, self sufficient, real, but also vulnerable. There has not been one of her female protagonists that have struck me as "too perfect" or "not relatable" and that is why I continue to adore the stories she gifts us with.
Sooooo, if you have a few hours to kill? A long flight? Insomnia? Dont look too far. All you need to do is add this book to your library and have a whole lot of fun reading it. Enjoy!
Absolutely fantastic read. And it is hard not to fall in love with Spring Grove and its residents. Not to mention Reed and Del! It is the second installment in the Spring Grove series and I felt like we were really able to get a clear image of what this town looks and feels like this time around.
This book starts with a hot bang (pun intended) and really builds up nice and steady throughout the read. The story is sweet, heartwarming, funny and it certainly doesn't lack Toni's usual spunk and sarcasm, which always brings a little something extra to the characters. In this book, we witness Reed being caught between the life he can have and the one he thinks makes him happy. But in the end home is, indeed, where the heart is! Delany has such a great personality and Toni really nailed it with this character being a perfect hometown sweetheart. She is super sweet but has just enough backbone and temper to balance it out. How she is and feels is ULTRA relatable for many women I think, which only made me appreciate her more! Also, I loved that she is a badass ball player. I love how Toni really makes it a point to write female characters that are independent, self sufficient, real, but also vulnerable. There has not been one of her female protagonists that have struck me as "too perfect" or "not relatable" and that is why I continue to adore the stories she gifts us with.
Sooooo, if you have a few hours to kill? A long flight? Insomnia? Dont look too far. All you need to do is add this book to your library and have a whole lot of fun reading it. Enjoy!
September 25, 2018
This is honestly a really hard review to write because I usually love anything Toni Aleo publishes and I loved the premise of this book. Unfortunately, for me, the execution fell a little flat.
The good:
The set up - I loved the idea of Delaney’s long time crush coming back to town and seeing what he was missing.
Reed’s emotional journey- I appreciated his growth as a character, becoming someone who could see past his blinders of the past
The cast- the secondary cast is a hoot!
The struggles:
Delaney- I’m sorry, but I really did struggle with the portrayal of the female lead. On one hand she’s described as a town laughing stock with anger issues, but she’s later described as the town sweetheart. This split personality seemed to follow her through the book and made it hard to connect with her.
The town- there are so many small town/small minded behaviors here that it’s hard to wrap my head around. Similar to my issue with Delaney, the town seemed to have dual personalities. One minute everything is prim and proper, the next everyone is openly discussing the fact that characters are being intimate with each other.
Reed/Delaney- from the way these two started out, it was hard to visualize the romantic relationship. I think it would have been helpful to see more of the friendship/relationship building vs how much they were together physically.
I know this makes it sound like I didn’t like the book at all, but that’s not true. I did like it and enjoy it, it just wasn’t the strong effort I have come to expect from Ms Aleo. It may be that this style/series just isn’t for me.
The good:
The set up - I loved the idea of Delaney’s long time crush coming back to town and seeing what he was missing.
Reed’s emotional journey- I appreciated his growth as a character, becoming someone who could see past his blinders of the past
The cast- the secondary cast is a hoot!
The struggles:
Delaney- I’m sorry, but I really did struggle with the portrayal of the female lead. On one hand she’s described as a town laughing stock with anger issues, but she’s later described as the town sweetheart. This split personality seemed to follow her through the book and made it hard to connect with her.
The town- there are so many small town/small minded behaviors here that it’s hard to wrap my head around. Similar to my issue with Delaney, the town seemed to have dual personalities. One minute everything is prim and proper, the next everyone is openly discussing the fact that characters are being intimate with each other.
Reed/Delaney- from the way these two started out, it was hard to visualize the romantic relationship. I think it would have been helpful to see more of the friendship/relationship building vs how much they were together physically.
I know this makes it sound like I didn’t like the book at all, but that’s not true. I did like it and enjoy it, it just wasn’t the strong effort I have come to expect from Ms Aleo. It may be that this style/series just isn’t for me.
September 25, 2018
I finished this book a few days ago and literally had to sit and wait to review because I just had so much to say and didn't know how to give this book the justice it so deserves. I absolutely LOVED Small-Town Sweetheart, Delaney and Reed were just pure perfection. Toni Aleo is one of my favorite authors so my expectations are always really high when it comes to her books. Small-Town Sweetheart didn't disappoint at all. In fact it blew my expectations way out of the park and was so beautifully written.
Delaney is the beloved girl in a small town called Spring Grove. She is loved by all except the men she dates who keep cheating on her, breaking her heart, etc. She is sweet and sassy, but has a temper when she is crossed. She can play ball like no ones business and has a hit out of this world. Delaney dabbles in working for whoever needs help in the town and is a lover of love.
Reed comes back to Spring Grove after his father's passing. His father leaves stipulations in his will which require Reed to stay for a certain amount of time. Reed knows by the end of his time given by his dad that he will return to his life outside of Spring Grove and cut ties once and for all. He has always felt out of place in Spring Grove and doesn't see that changing.
Delaney has always had a crush on Reed. When these two see each other for the first time they realize that they want each other badly. These two take quite the journey together thinking they are both in it for sex, but sex always leads to complications right? I highly suggest reading to find out how their story goes. It's a page turner for sure! Another 5 Star Toni Aleo read!
Delaney is the beloved girl in a small town called Spring Grove. She is loved by all except the men she dates who keep cheating on her, breaking her heart, etc. She is sweet and sassy, but has a temper when she is crossed. She can play ball like no ones business and has a hit out of this world. Delaney dabbles in working for whoever needs help in the town and is a lover of love.
Reed comes back to Spring Grove after his father's passing. His father leaves stipulations in his will which require Reed to stay for a certain amount of time. Reed knows by the end of his time given by his dad that he will return to his life outside of Spring Grove and cut ties once and for all. He has always felt out of place in Spring Grove and doesn't see that changing.
Delaney has always had a crush on Reed. When these two see each other for the first time they realize that they want each other badly. These two take quite the journey together thinking they are both in it for sex, but sex always leads to complications right? I highly suggest reading to find out how their story goes. It's a page turner for sure! Another 5 Star Toni Aleo read!
September 25, 2018
RIGHT IN THE FEELS!
She has wanted him her whole life, but never felt good enough. He wanted her right back but felt she could do better. Now he is back and is taking what he wanted all those years ago, her. With his time in the small town he grew up in but never felt welcome limited will he leave her with a broken heart or find himself breaking at the thought of leaving something he never thought he wanted, his girl and the town.
What can I say about this book, I am so impressed with this sequel, fantastic, wonderful, marvelous, spectacular are all words that came to mind while reading this story. This book is funny and sweet and emotional and everything I needed in a book. The story was intriguing from the first page and the characters and dialog made me want to already read it again.
Delaney's insecurities hit me right in the heart, I could feel her struggle and the pain from her past. The fact that she stayed smiling and kind and loving throughout the story, even when she felt like crawling in her blanket fort and crying was awesome because I feel like sometimes too. When she cried my eyes got cloudy and when she was happy I was happy for her. Delaney was one of the most relatable and likable characters I have read in a while, I wish I had a friend like her in real life.
When it comes to Reed... what to say about Reed. I really liked how his background was incorporated into the story line and flowed so easily. He showed so many normal human traits that people have in relationships but you don't always see in book heroes. He struggled with the mindset of thinking he knew what he wanted and was best for him rather than reevaluating based on what was in front of him at that point in time. I like how he owned his mistakes, I wish he thought things through a bit more but I think that of my Husband on the regular so i could relate to him, I understood his reasoning no matter how idiotic it may be.
Overall this book was 5 stars and I can't wait to read more in this series. This series and especial this book are already in my read again list.
She has wanted him her whole life, but never felt good enough. He wanted her right back but felt she could do better. Now he is back and is taking what he wanted all those years ago, her. With his time in the small town he grew up in but never felt welcome limited will he leave her with a broken heart or find himself breaking at the thought of leaving something he never thought he wanted, his girl and the town.
What can I say about this book, I am so impressed with this sequel, fantastic, wonderful, marvelous, spectacular are all words that came to mind while reading this story. This book is funny and sweet and emotional and everything I needed in a book. The story was intriguing from the first page and the characters and dialog made me want to already read it again.
Delaney's insecurities hit me right in the heart, I could feel her struggle and the pain from her past. The fact that she stayed smiling and kind and loving throughout the story, even when she felt like crawling in her blanket fort and crying was awesome because I feel like sometimes too. When she cried my eyes got cloudy and when she was happy I was happy for her. Delaney was one of the most relatable and likable characters I have read in a while, I wish I had a friend like her in real life.
When it comes to Reed... what to say about Reed. I really liked how his background was incorporated into the story line and flowed so easily. He showed so many normal human traits that people have in relationships but you don't always see in book heroes. He struggled with the mindset of thinking he knew what he wanted and was best for him rather than reevaluating based on what was in front of him at that point in time. I like how he owned his mistakes, I wish he thought things through a bit more but I think that of my Husband on the regular so i could relate to him, I understood his reasoning no matter how idiotic it may be.
Overall this book was 5 stars and I can't wait to read more in this series. This series and especial this book are already in my read again list.
September 19, 2018
Sometime the last place you want to be is the only place you need to be. Delaney Abbot loves Spring Grove, Kentucky. It's the only place she ever wants to be. Reed McElroy is the complete opposite. As soon as he could he got out of Spring Grove. However, Reed now has to come back to Spring Grove but as he insists- only temporarily. He has his memories of how the town treated him when he was growing up and he tries to work on the fact that maybe the town has changed. Delaney may have changed physically but she is still the same girl who always had a soft spot for Reed. Delaney is such a relatable character that you can't help but root for her to finally find someone who will appreciate her. As old friends reconnect you become entangled in all the quirks this small town has to offer. Author Toni Aleo does a great job of really seeing the town from two very different views. This book is definitely worth a read ( and maybe a re-read :) ) Did I mention there is a basset hound? Oh that's right .. as if you needed another reason to read this book Reed is a veterinarian who has a very funny ( well probably not to him) phobia of a certain animal. You'll have to read the book to see what has him so scared. As these two navigate old friendships and feelings it comes down to what really matters in love and in life. I can't wait to read more in this series. The book had me laughing right from page 1.
September 26, 2018
Another hit by this author. The second book in this series but dont fret if you havent read book one(but read that one too its awesome) this can be read as a standalone!!
The first chapter sucked me right in, had me laughing so hard. From then on I laughed, I cried, i fell in love.
Delaney lives in the smalltown of with her mawmaw. She's a little wacky, has terrible luck with men but a whole lot of love from the townsfolk. She loves everything about this town. Has never imagined living anywhere else, and has multiple jobs all over town helping everyone out.
Reed and Delaney have been friends since childhood although he doesn't realize that his little friend has loved him since then also. He hates the smalltown, and the local folks who havent always been too nice to him considering his family owns the whiskey distillery. He leaves as soon as he is finished highschool works as a vet and never plans on returning. When a family crisis sends him back home and into the town that he hates he realizes not much has changed. Except little Delaney is now gorgeous but he isn't staying so he won't be letting her know he feels that way.
When he is forced to stay and work for the local vet, and try to face his demons from the past it brings him and Delaney together...but will he stay and be happy or still leave when the time is done?
I can't say enough about this book and how amazing it is!
The first chapter sucked me right in, had me laughing so hard. From then on I laughed, I cried, i fell in love.
Delaney lives in the smalltown of with her mawmaw. She's a little wacky, has terrible luck with men but a whole lot of love from the townsfolk. She loves everything about this town. Has never imagined living anywhere else, and has multiple jobs all over town helping everyone out.
Reed and Delaney have been friends since childhood although he doesn't realize that his little friend has loved him since then also. He hates the smalltown, and the local folks who havent always been too nice to him considering his family owns the whiskey distillery. He leaves as soon as he is finished highschool works as a vet and never plans on returning. When a family crisis sends him back home and into the town that he hates he realizes not much has changed. Except little Delaney is now gorgeous but he isn't staying so he won't be letting her know he feels that way.
When he is forced to stay and work for the local vet, and try to face his demons from the past it brings him and Delaney together...but will he stay and be happy or still leave when the time is done?
I can't say enough about this book and how amazing it is!
October 6, 2018
Everything I could ever want is here
Delaney is the town sweetheart always helping everyone, working at many of the businesses in town, but unfortunately not so lucky at love.
Reed is the black sheep of the town, couldn’t wait to leave town and never wanted to return, but his father passes away and he returns to fulfill his fathers wishes.
When Reed comes back to town he reconnects with his childhood friend Delaney, they always had a special bond and Delaney and had a crush on Reed, has Delaney always compared every other men to Reed?
Reed and Delaney rub each other the wrong way and at the same time are drawn to each other, they finally give in to the attraction. Reed can’t wait to leave town and get back to his life, but as time goes on, he starts to think about what he really wants in life. Delaney is the best thing to ever happen to him and how could he think he was actually going leave her. I don’t want to lose her; I want to make her to be mine forever.
Delaney is all about the town and never wants to live anywhere else but if Reed leaves is he going to take her heart with him.
A story of realizing what you want in life and how sometimes what you need is really in your hometown.
Toni Aleo once again gives us a heartfelt story about life and how family can be more than just who you’re related too.
Delaney is the town sweetheart always helping everyone, working at many of the businesses in town, but unfortunately not so lucky at love.
Reed is the black sheep of the town, couldn’t wait to leave town and never wanted to return, but his father passes away and he returns to fulfill his fathers wishes.
When Reed comes back to town he reconnects with his childhood friend Delaney, they always had a special bond and Delaney and had a crush on Reed, has Delaney always compared every other men to Reed?
Reed and Delaney rub each other the wrong way and at the same time are drawn to each other, they finally give in to the attraction. Reed can’t wait to leave town and get back to his life, but as time goes on, he starts to think about what he really wants in life. Delaney is the best thing to ever happen to him and how could he think he was actually going leave her. I don’t want to lose her; I want to make her to be mine forever.
Delaney is all about the town and never wants to live anywhere else but if Reed leaves is he going to take her heart with him.
A story of realizing what you want in life and how sometimes what you need is really in your hometown.
Toni Aleo once again gives us a heartfelt story about life and how family can be more than just who you’re related too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews