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Back to You
Four years after the most confusing summer of her life, recent college graduate Iris Tilley is moving back home with no idea of the repercussions waiting to greet her. Going home means reconnecting with her dad, facing her motherless home, and confronting her gorgeous neighbor, Weston Alcorn.
And all of this, unfortunately, has to be done in a small southern town where gossip is a prized currency.
As the summer forges on, Iris struggles to find her place in a town that’s changed as much as it’s stayed the same, and it doesn’t help that Weston doesn’t seem to know how to treat her. Through awkward encounters, tense conversations, and heartbreaking revelations, neither Weston nor Iris can ignore the spark they ignited four years prior. But as Iris's past and the prospect of her future violently clash, it's no longer a question of can they ignore it, but will they have the chance?
And all of this, unfortunately, has to be done in a small southern town where gossip is a prized currency.
As the summer forges on, Iris struggles to find her place in a town that’s changed as much as it’s stayed the same, and it doesn’t help that Weston doesn’t seem to know how to treat her. Through awkward encounters, tense conversations, and heartbreaking revelations, neither Weston nor Iris can ignore the spark they ignited four years prior. But as Iris's past and the prospect of her future violently clash, it's no longer a question of can they ignore it, but will they have the chance?
- GenresSecond Chance
376 pages, Paperback
Published April 2, 2017
157 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Miranda
2 books10 followersC.J. Miranda is the pen name for a romance lover whose last name the majority of people cannot pronounce.
She's 26, living in Louisiana with her boyfriend and their two dogs, and loves pasta almost as much as she hates cooking.
She's been writing and posting freely online since around thirteen or fourteen years old, and it was only the internet who knew about it until she finally told her mom about her passion at sixteen.
Nowadays she's a little more confident in letting people know she loves to write romance novels, and wants it to become her day job so she can sit on her balcony with her little Boston Terrier, drinking coffee and losing herself in her daydreams.
She's 26, living in Louisiana with her boyfriend and their two dogs, and loves pasta almost as much as she hates cooking.
She's been writing and posting freely online since around thirteen or fourteen years old, and it was only the internet who knew about it until she finally told her mom about her passion at sixteen.
Nowadays she's a little more confident in letting people know she loves to write romance novels, and wants it to become her day job so she can sit on her balcony with her little Boston Terrier, drinking coffee and losing herself in her daydreams.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
November 11, 2016
Back to You is a great read. The people and places come to life on the pages and it’s as if you are there with them, not just reading about them. You can see their faces, feel their struggles and rejoice in their victories. There’s a little bit of everything in this book; love, friendship, self-discovery, plenty of sarcasm and just enough ‘heat’! There’s even some unexpected twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. I would highly recommend this book and can’t wait to see what this new author comes up with next.
September 29, 2017
I loved this book!
Everything about it, from the heart breaking romance, to the fast paced ending.
Everything about it, from the heart breaking romance, to the fast paced ending.
March 3, 2017
Well Back to You was an awesome book in my opinion. I found myself wanting to scream at the characters at times which just shows how much I liked them and how invested I was. Iris and West definitely have their issues to work through but with outside factors in play it's difficult to make forever happen as they both find out.
Ups, downs, and a couple of twists thrown in this book kept me engaged and turning pages. I couldn't wait to see if they would get their happy ever after! Some things are worth the wait, you just have to decide how hard you're willing to work to keep it.
Ups, downs, and a couple of twists thrown in this book kept me engaged and turning pages. I couldn't wait to see if they would get their happy ever after! Some things are worth the wait, you just have to decide how hard you're willing to work to keep it.
March 5, 2017
This book was amazing ! You feel like you know the characters and can't wait to read more. Just enough sas and steam ! This is a really awesome read !
March 3, 2017
I loved this story so much. All the feels ALL OF THEM! A couple to root for. This one will stick with me for a long time.
February 8, 2019
Solid debut
Whatever wariness I felt going into this didn't last long. This book was seriously good for a debut. The young 20-something characters were depicted with perfect realism, and were as heartwarming as they were frustrating. Most of Iris and Weston's issues were caused by miscommunication, but that's what we are like at that age. What is different here than with most stories with misunderstandings as a hindrance to the couple is that these two actually learned from those mistakes. Nobody ran off and cheated or ran away pregnant, only to show up years later with the dreaded 'secret baby.'
They showed just the right amount of growth through an interesting plot that had a touch of drama and angst without going too over the top.
This was a slow-burn with a few nicely executed intimate scenes and absolutely NO mention of either characters' previous sex life. Loved all of that. No pregnancy or trite epilogue with future kids, either.
Well edited, entirely in the heroine's POV, lots of positives for this reader.
This writer is one to watch and I'll be looking forward to see what she does next.
Whatever wariness I felt going into this didn't last long. This book was seriously good for a debut. The young 20-something characters were depicted with perfect realism, and were as heartwarming as they were frustrating. Most of Iris and Weston's issues were caused by miscommunication, but that's what we are like at that age. What is different here than with most stories with misunderstandings as a hindrance to the couple is that these two actually learned from those mistakes. Nobody ran off and cheated or ran away pregnant, only to show up years later with the dreaded 'secret baby.'
They showed just the right amount of growth through an interesting plot that had a touch of drama and angst without going too over the top.
This was a slow-burn with a few nicely executed intimate scenes and absolutely NO mention of either characters' previous sex life. Loved all of that. No pregnancy or trite epilogue with future kids, either.
Well edited, entirely in the heroine's POV, lots of positives for this reader.
This writer is one to watch and I'll be looking forward to see what she does next.
March 25, 2017
**3.5 Stars**
Four years ago, Iris left for college. Now that she's home, she has a few things to face. First, shortly before leaving, her Mom had walked out on her and her Dad. Second, the night of her going away party, sad and missing her Mom, Iris had taken a moment for herself and was surprised when her neighbor, Weston, joined her. Two years apart in age, Weston being older, they knew of each other due to school and living so close together, but they'd never really talked. That fact didn't stop them from having secret crushes on the other though. They talked for a few minutes, Weston offering comfort due to knowing what it's like to experience a loss, his being the death of his brother, and unable to resist, they shared an explosive kiss. They parted ways, Weston believing they'd talk the next day, Iris knowing she was leaving and not telling him.
She's now back and it seems Weston is not happy about that fact. Yes, she was hoping for a different reception as time and distance had given her insight into how deeply that kiss impacted her, but Weston seemed as if he couldn't stand to be near her. She deals with this attitude while adjusting to being back home, being face with memories of her Mom, and finding a new job. Although the position is temporary as the employee is on maternity leave, Iris likes it and has gained a new friend, Jenny. The two quickly grow close.
When Iris is injured, Weston sees and immediately steps in to help. He takes Iris to the hospital and stays with her. Iris is happy to see Weston's opinion of her seems to have thawed some, yet she can still sense the tension surrounding him. Iris resolves to ignore her feelings for Weston, his hostility toward her, and move forward. Some of that is easier to do than others as her new friend, Jenny, seems to have taken an interest in Weston and it appears mutual, much to Iris's regret. She reluctantly gives Iris the go-ahead and has to watch as the two date and listen as Jenny gushes over him. It isn't long before Jenny's brother, Campbell, visits and he and Iris seem to click. As each couple's relationship progresses, it's obvious to see in both Weston's actions, and Iris's thoughts, that seeing the other with someone else is difficult.
But as fate is hard to fight, Weston and Iris continually find themselves struggling to ignore what's between them. When they finally start talking about their kiss from four years ago, Iris is shocked to learn Weston saw the kiss as only the beginning of what could be between them. When she left without a word, he was hurt and had let that show when she returned, in an attempt to protect himself.
What happens when their new relationships don't seem to be working out? Is it because they know, as does the whole town that seems to be rooting for them, they should be together? Will they actually take a chance and see what could be between them? How will it impact Iris's friendship with Jenny? Or was that already ruined by Jenny's actions and behavior? Can Weston trust that Iris won't run again when emotions start getting real? Can Iris let herself be vulnerable with Weston? How will Iris and her Dad react when Iris's Mom returns? Why did she leave? Where has she been the past four years? Why is she bruised and acting scared? What happens when the danger Iris's Mom thought she escaped follows her and sees Iris as a threat? When Weston and Iris fight, can Iris forgive him for his hurtful words? Can she trust the feelings he claims to have for her? Or will Weston lose Iris before he can prove his love and apologize? Will these two finally get their HEA?
One-click now and follow along with Weston and Iris as they explore the connection between them...four years after it began.
On a purely personal note, while I usually really dislike when the hero is with someone else after meeting the h, for some reason it didn't seem to bother me as much in this book. Yes, Weston and Iris were never actually together four years ago, though both wanted to be, and upon her return, it didn't seem as if they would be now either. Again, even with those being the case, other people usually still upset me. But, and I really like how the author did this, we never see Weston and Jenny together in that way. We do see them leaving for dates together, know they're seeing each other, they double date with Campbell and Iris, and we hear Jenny talk about him. However, we never see or read about any intimacy between them, and while we do have that with Campbell and Iris kissing, I'm honestly a lot more lenient with my heroines. I think this is what enabled me to continue reading without my usual dislike regarding this situation. Also, in case you're wondering, it is stated that Weston and Jenny were never together sexually, a fact Jenny whines about, err mentions *wink* several times to Iris, nor were Campbell and Iris. I was extremely happy to have this confirmation.
Four years ago, Iris left for college. Now that she's home, she has a few things to face. First, shortly before leaving, her Mom had walked out on her and her Dad. Second, the night of her going away party, sad and missing her Mom, Iris had taken a moment for herself and was surprised when her neighbor, Weston, joined her. Two years apart in age, Weston being older, they knew of each other due to school and living so close together, but they'd never really talked. That fact didn't stop them from having secret crushes on the other though. They talked for a few minutes, Weston offering comfort due to knowing what it's like to experience a loss, his being the death of his brother, and unable to resist, they shared an explosive kiss. They parted ways, Weston believing they'd talk the next day, Iris knowing she was leaving and not telling him.
She's now back and it seems Weston is not happy about that fact. Yes, she was hoping for a different reception as time and distance had given her insight into how deeply that kiss impacted her, but Weston seemed as if he couldn't stand to be near her. She deals with this attitude while adjusting to being back home, being face with memories of her Mom, and finding a new job. Although the position is temporary as the employee is on maternity leave, Iris likes it and has gained a new friend, Jenny. The two quickly grow close.
When Iris is injured, Weston sees and immediately steps in to help. He takes Iris to the hospital and stays with her. Iris is happy to see Weston's opinion of her seems to have thawed some, yet she can still sense the tension surrounding him. Iris resolves to ignore her feelings for Weston, his hostility toward her, and move forward. Some of that is easier to do than others as her new friend, Jenny, seems to have taken an interest in Weston and it appears mutual, much to Iris's regret. She reluctantly gives Iris the go-ahead and has to watch as the two date and listen as Jenny gushes over him. It isn't long before Jenny's brother, Campbell, visits and he and Iris seem to click. As each couple's relationship progresses, it's obvious to see in both Weston's actions, and Iris's thoughts, that seeing the other with someone else is difficult.
But as fate is hard to fight, Weston and Iris continually find themselves struggling to ignore what's between them. When they finally start talking about their kiss from four years ago, Iris is shocked to learn Weston saw the kiss as only the beginning of what could be between them. When she left without a word, he was hurt and had let that show when she returned, in an attempt to protect himself.
What happens when their new relationships don't seem to be working out? Is it because they know, as does the whole town that seems to be rooting for them, they should be together? Will they actually take a chance and see what could be between them? How will it impact Iris's friendship with Jenny? Or was that already ruined by Jenny's actions and behavior? Can Weston trust that Iris won't run again when emotions start getting real? Can Iris let herself be vulnerable with Weston? How will Iris and her Dad react when Iris's Mom returns? Why did she leave? Where has she been the past four years? Why is she bruised and acting scared? What happens when the danger Iris's Mom thought she escaped follows her and sees Iris as a threat? When Weston and Iris fight, can Iris forgive him for his hurtful words? Can she trust the feelings he claims to have for her? Or will Weston lose Iris before he can prove his love and apologize? Will these two finally get their HEA?
One-click now and follow along with Weston and Iris as they explore the connection between them...four years after it began.
On a purely personal note, while I usually really dislike when the hero is with someone else after meeting the h, for some reason it didn't seem to bother me as much in this book. Yes, Weston and Iris were never actually together four years ago, though both wanted to be, and upon her return, it didn't seem as if they would be now either. Again, even with those being the case, other people usually still upset me. But, and I really like how the author did this, we never see Weston and Jenny together in that way. We do see them leaving for dates together, know they're seeing each other, they double date with Campbell and Iris, and we hear Jenny talk about him. However, we never see or read about any intimacy between them, and while we do have that with Campbell and Iris kissing, I'm honestly a lot more lenient with my heroines. I think this is what enabled me to continue reading without my usual dislike regarding this situation. Also, in case you're wondering, it is stated that Weston and Jenny were never together sexually, a fact Jenny whines about, err mentions *wink* several times to Iris, nor were Campbell and Iris. I was extremely happy to have this confirmation.
March 23, 2017
**3.5 Stars**
Four years ago, Iris left for college. Now that she's home, she has a few things to face. First, shortly before leaving, her Mom had walked out on her and her Dad. Second, the night of her going away party, sad and missing her Mom, Iris had taken a moment for herself and was surprised when her neighbor, Weston, joined her. Two years apart in age, Weston being older, they knew of each other due to school and living so close together, but they'd never really talked. That fact didn't stop them from having secret crushes on the other though. They talked for a few minutes, Weston offering comfort due to knowing what it's like to experience a loss, his being the death of his brother, and unable to resist, they shared an explosive kiss. They parted ways, Weston believing they'd talk the next day, Iris knowing she was leaving and not telling him.
She's now back and it seems Weston is not happy about that fact. Yes, she was hoping for a different reception as time and distance had given her insight into how deeply that kiss impacted her, but Weston seemed as if he couldn't stand to be near her. She deals with this attitude while adjusting to being back home, being face with memories of her Mom, and finding a new job. Although the position is temporary as the employee is on maternity leave, Iris likes it and has gained a new friend, Jenny. The two quickly grow close.
When Iris is injured, Weston sees and immediately steps in to help. He takes Iris to the hospital and stays with her. Iris is happy to see Weston's opinion of her seems to have thawed some, yet she can still sense the tension surrounding him. Iris resolves to ignore her feelings for Weston, his hostility toward her, and move forward. Some of that is easier to do than others as her new friend, Jenny, seems to have taken an interest in Weston and it appears mutual, much to Iris's regret. She reluctantly gives Iris the go-ahead and has to watch as the two date and listen as Jenny gushes over him. It isn't long before Jenny's brother, Campbell, visits and he and Iris seem to click. As each couple's relationship progresses, it's obvious to see in both Weston's actions, and Iris's thoughts, that seeing the other with someone else is difficult.
But as fate is hard to fight, Weston and Iris continually find themselves struggling to ignore what's between them. When they finally start talking about their kiss from four years ago, Iris is shocked to learn Weston saw the kiss as only the beginning of what could be between them. When she left without a word, he was hurt and had let that show when she returned, in an attempt to protect himself.
What happens when their new relationships don't seem to be working out? Is it because they know, as does the whole town that seems to be rooting for them, they should be together? Will they actually take a chance and see what could be between them? How will it impact Iris's friendship with Jenny? Or was that already ruined by Jenny's actions and behavior? Can Weston trust that Iris won't run again when emotions start getting real? Can Iris let herself be vulnerable with Weston? How will Iris and her Dad react when Iris's Mom returns? Why did she leave? Where has she been the past four years? Why is she bruised and acting scared? What happens when the danger Iris's Mom thought she escaped follows her and sees Iris as a threat? When Weston and Iris fight, can Iris forgive him for his hurtful words? Can she trust the feelings he claims to have for her? Or will Weston lose Iris before he can prove his love and apologize? Will these two finally get their HEA?
One-click now and follow along with Weston and Iris as they explore the connection between them...four years after it began.
On a purely personal note, while I usually really dislike when the hero is with someone else after meeting the h, for some reason it didn't seem to bother me as much in this book. Yes, Weston and Iris were never actually together four years ago, though both wanted to be, and upon her return, it didn't seem as if they would be now either. Again, even with those being the case, other people usually still upset me. But, and I really like how the author did this, we never see Weston and Jenny together in that way. We do see them leaving for dates together, know they're seeing each other, they double date with Campbell and Iris, and we hear Jenny talk about him. However, we never see or read about any intimacy between them, and while we do have that with Campbell and Iris kissing, I'm honestly a lot more lenient with my heroines. I think this is what enabled me to continue reading without my usual dislike regarding this situation. Also, in case you're wondering, it is stated that Weston and Jenny were never together sexually, a fact Jenny whines about, err mentions *wink* several times to Iris, nor were Campbell and Iris. I was extremely happy to have this confirmation.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Four years ago, Iris left for college. Now that she's home, she has a few things to face. First, shortly before leaving, her Mom had walked out on her and her Dad. Second, the night of her going away party, sad and missing her Mom, Iris had taken a moment for herself and was surprised when her neighbor, Weston, joined her. Two years apart in age, Weston being older, they knew of each other due to school and living so close together, but they'd never really talked. That fact didn't stop them from having secret crushes on the other though. They talked for a few minutes, Weston offering comfort due to knowing what it's like to experience a loss, his being the death of his brother, and unable to resist, they shared an explosive kiss. They parted ways, Weston believing they'd talk the next day, Iris knowing she was leaving and not telling him.
She's now back and it seems Weston is not happy about that fact. Yes, she was hoping for a different reception as time and distance had given her insight into how deeply that kiss impacted her, but Weston seemed as if he couldn't stand to be near her. She deals with this attitude while adjusting to being back home, being face with memories of her Mom, and finding a new job. Although the position is temporary as the employee is on maternity leave, Iris likes it and has gained a new friend, Jenny. The two quickly grow close.
When Iris is injured, Weston sees and immediately steps in to help. He takes Iris to the hospital and stays with her. Iris is happy to see Weston's opinion of her seems to have thawed some, yet she can still sense the tension surrounding him. Iris resolves to ignore her feelings for Weston, his hostility toward her, and move forward. Some of that is easier to do than others as her new friend, Jenny, seems to have taken an interest in Weston and it appears mutual, much to Iris's regret. She reluctantly gives Iris the go-ahead and has to watch as the two date and listen as Jenny gushes over him. It isn't long before Jenny's brother, Campbell, visits and he and Iris seem to click. As each couple's relationship progresses, it's obvious to see in both Weston's actions, and Iris's thoughts, that seeing the other with someone else is difficult.
But as fate is hard to fight, Weston and Iris continually find themselves struggling to ignore what's between them. When they finally start talking about their kiss from four years ago, Iris is shocked to learn Weston saw the kiss as only the beginning of what could be between them. When she left without a word, he was hurt and had let that show when she returned, in an attempt to protect himself.
What happens when their new relationships don't seem to be working out? Is it because they know, as does the whole town that seems to be rooting for them, they should be together? Will they actually take a chance and see what could be between them? How will it impact Iris's friendship with Jenny? Or was that already ruined by Jenny's actions and behavior? Can Weston trust that Iris won't run again when emotions start getting real? Can Iris let herself be vulnerable with Weston? How will Iris and her Dad react when Iris's Mom returns? Why did she leave? Where has she been the past four years? Why is she bruised and acting scared? What happens when the danger Iris's Mom thought she escaped follows her and sees Iris as a threat? When Weston and Iris fight, can Iris forgive him for his hurtful words? Can she trust the feelings he claims to have for her? Or will Weston lose Iris before he can prove his love and apologize? Will these two finally get their HEA?
One-click now and follow along with Weston and Iris as they explore the connection between them...four years after it began.
On a purely personal note, while I usually really dislike when the hero is with someone else after meeting the h, for some reason it didn't seem to bother me as much in this book. Yes, Weston and Iris were never actually together four years ago, though both wanted to be, and upon her return, it didn't seem as if they would be now either. Again, even with those being the case, other people usually still upset me. But, and I really like how the author did this, we never see Weston and Jenny together in that way. We do see them leaving for dates together, know they're seeing each other, they double date with Campbell and Iris, and we hear Jenny talk about him. However, we never see or read about any intimacy between them, and while we do have that with Campbell and Iris kissing, I'm honestly a lot more lenient with my heroines. I think this is what enabled me to continue reading without my usual dislike regarding this situation. Also, in case you're wondering, it is stated that Weston and Jenny were never together sexually, a fact Jenny whines about, err mentions *wink* several times to Iris, nor were Campbell and Iris. I was extremely happy to have this confirmation.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
March 26, 2017
Back To You makes a full circle. Second chances with life, love and to be happy once again. A wonderful read from a debut author. A romance in the making for Iris and Weston.
With living in a small town, everyone knows each other. That could be a a good, bad comforting and suffocating. But can you have all that and be happy? Iris had to make that choice. However, timing was not on her side. She did not except to have a special moment with her neighbor Weston. A kiss that was special to her and something that she cherished while in college. When she returned home, her welcome was not well received by everyone. And that included Weston. But with time and communication, could he forgive her?
I really enjoyed Back To You. It shows that second chances can happen and relationships can be mended after heartbreak. Definitely will enjoy reading more from CJ Miranda.
4 stars
Received arc for an honest review
With living in a small town, everyone knows each other. That could be a a good, bad comforting and suffocating. But can you have all that and be happy? Iris had to make that choice. However, timing was not on her side. She did not except to have a special moment with her neighbor Weston. A kiss that was special to her and something that she cherished while in college. When she returned home, her welcome was not well received by everyone. And that included Weston. But with time and communication, could he forgive her?
I really enjoyed Back To You. It shows that second chances can happen and relationships can be mended after heartbreak. Definitely will enjoy reading more from CJ Miranda.
4 stars
Received arc for an honest review
March 29, 2017
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the plot and storyline, and the progression was well-paced. The main characters were likesble, for the main part, although there were moments when they can across as immature (Iris, in particular), but when I thought about the fact that they were in their early twenties (and reminisced about my behavior at that age), that helped.
The author shows a lot of potential, and I will more than likely read more from her in the future!
The author shows a lot of potential, and I will more than likely read more from her in the future!
April 20, 2017
I enjoyed every single aspect of this book. The two main characters are fully fleshed out and feel so real that the reader simply falls into the story. The author surprises the reader at so many turns throughout the story. Iris and Weston have a realistic story that takes the reader from hurt and heartache to joy, smiles, and even some giggles. At the same time, the author delicately addresses and raises awareness of an issue that may hit very close to home for many readers. I can't wait to see what this author brings to the table in the future!
August 11, 2017
Super cute 2nd chance romance.
July 13, 2019
I remember reading this on Wattpad! ANDDD YESSS It was the most beautiful book that I've ever read.
P.S I've rated this before but I kinda deleted my old goodreads account due to personal reasons but I'm so happy that I've finally found the book! And... I'm also happy that this was already published! I'M IN LOVE! ❤️
Wish to read it again but unfortunately it is not yet available in my country yet :(
Why is this sooo underrated? Like WHYY???
P.S I've rated this before but I kinda deleted my old goodreads account due to personal reasons but I'm so happy that I've finally found the book! And... I'm also happy that this was already published! I'M IN LOVE! ❤️
Wish to read it again but unfortunately it is not yet available in my country yet :(
Why is this sooo underrated? Like WHYY???
May 27, 2019
Warning to other non cryers in the world. The main character cries a lot. Like, a lot a lot.
October 10, 2019
This story reads more like bullet points of what happened rather than a well flowing story, but even so, I still finished it and I enjoyed it well enough.
It was VERY cliche and when it came to the gun wielding scene I did have to skim read. Come on, how much drama do we need before the HEA? We all knew the cyclone was coming, the break up, the abusive ex making an appearance.
The plot was predictable but somehow I still found myself engrossed in the story and reading well into the wee hours.
It was VERY cliche and when it came to the gun wielding scene I did have to skim read. Come on, how much drama do we need before the HEA? We all knew the cyclone was coming, the break up, the abusive ex making an appearance.
The plot was predictable but somehow I still found myself engrossed in the story and reading well into the wee hours.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2024
Adorable book! Very feel good with a lot of plot lines, so it kept me very interested. A couple of spicy parts too, so all around a good one!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews