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Hickory Hills #1
Thinking 'Bout You
To the world, he’s Dustin Wild, country star with a megawatt smile and a voice smooth as whiskey. To me, he’ll always be Dustin Wilder, the small-town boy who stole my heart…then broke it.
It’s been seven years since Dustin rolled out of our rural Georgia town, chasing his dream, promising he’d be back. Except that never happened. Instead, he topped the charts, trading in our future plans for a life that didn’t involve me at all.
I thought I’d moved on. Until the town busybodies invite Dustin back to Hickory Hills to perform at the annual Rhythm and Brews Festival.
All I can do is swoon when he says my name or flashes me that smile. And by the way he’s looking at me, my heart can’t help but hope he feels the same.
I’ve got my eyes wide open this time, and I won’t let him hurt me again.
That is, until ghosts from our past have something to say about our second chance.
It’s been seven years since Dustin rolled out of our rural Georgia town, chasing his dream, promising he’d be back. Except that never happened. Instead, he topped the charts, trading in our future plans for a life that didn’t involve me at all.
I thought I’d moved on. Until the town busybodies invite Dustin back to Hickory Hills to perform at the annual Rhythm and Brews Festival.
All I can do is swoon when he says my name or flashes me that smile. And by the way he’s looking at me, my heart can’t help but hope he feels the same.
I’ve got my eyes wide open this time, and I won’t let him hurt me again.
That is, until ghosts from our past have something to say about our second chance.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2023
174 people are currently reading
629 people want to read
About the author
Claire Hastings
29 books829 followersClaire Hastings is a walking, talking awkward moment. She loves Diet Coke, gummi bears, the beach, and books (obvs). When not reading she can usually be found hanging with friends at a soccer match or grabbing food (although she probably still has a book in her purse). She and her husband Drew live in Atlanta with their fur-child Denali.
She can be found here:
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She can be found here:
Instagram | Facebook | Reader Group | Amazon | Website | Newsletter | BookBub
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
March 28, 2023
Dustin’s apology was so fucking half hearted.
Don’t you just hate it when characters go “ And I hate myself that I caused her pain…FOR YEARS” “The last thing I ever wanted to do was hurt you” LOLOLOL okay then don’t fuckin cause her pain, genius. How could you even believe what this person is saying LMAO.
He didn’t even apologize to her on his own volition BUT because an opportunity came up for him to get home. He didn’t do shit to warrant such “regret”
And what’s more is it’s too little to late. And OF COURSE the female character has to go “body betraying syndrome” all over again. 🙄 ew disgusting
*sighs* this is why second chance romance is rarely done right.
Dustin chose his dreams over Kenzie. She’s just a footnote to his dreams. And on the other hand, whatever did she do other than pine for Dustin most of her time and cry and what did Dustin have to suffer for? Oh you know, just being a popular country singer.
I love Willa for ripping Dustin. Everything she said was what he deserved to hear and Dustin the noble Dustin had the audacity to be mad that’s he’s also hurting LOL
This is the kind of book where I do not believe at their happy ending. Kinda wished Kenzie really moved on like what she said at the first chapter. Oh well.
And then the winner of this all is that Kenzie’s friends basically told her she’s an idiot making her think she has to “win the love of her life” 🤢🤮 way to go!
Don’t you just hate it when characters go “ And I hate myself that I caused her pain…FOR YEARS” “The last thing I ever wanted to do was hurt you” LOLOLOL okay then don’t fuckin cause her pain, genius. How could you even believe what this person is saying LMAO.
He didn’t even apologize to her on his own volition BUT because an opportunity came up for him to get home. He didn’t do shit to warrant such “regret”
And what’s more is it’s too little to late. And OF COURSE the female character has to go “body betraying syndrome” all over again. 🙄 ew disgusting
*sighs* this is why second chance romance is rarely done right.
Dustin chose his dreams over Kenzie. She’s just a footnote to his dreams. And on the other hand, whatever did she do other than pine for Dustin most of her time and cry and what did Dustin have to suffer for? Oh you know, just being a popular country singer.
I love Willa for ripping Dustin. Everything she said was what he deserved to hear and Dustin the noble Dustin had the audacity to be mad that’s he’s also hurting LOL
This is the kind of book where I do not believe at their happy ending. Kinda wished Kenzie really moved on like what she said at the first chapter. Oh well.
And then the winner of this all is that Kenzie’s friends basically told her she’s an idiot making her think she has to “win the love of her life” 🤢🤮 way to go!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2023
Title: Thinking ‘Bout You
Author: Claire Hastings
Hero/Heroine: Dustin & Kenzie
Tropes: Second Chance, Celebrity, Friends to Lovers, Small Town,
TW/CW: Parent with cancer, mention of parental abandonment,
THE GOOD 😀
I’m back in my small town era folks! This has to be one of my favourite tropes and it was so well written in Thinking ‘Bout You.
Dustin, a big time country singer, is back in his hometown to perform at a local music and beer festival, and the one thing he’s looking forward to is seeing his ex, Kenzie. She, on the other hand, has come up with a plan to avoid Dustin for fear of falling for his charms again. As you can probably guess, that plan goes up in smoke when they run into each other for the first time after seven years.
I think the one thing that I loved about this book (apart from the amazing friendship group) is that Dustin and Kenzie weren’t at each others throats when they see each other again. Don’t get me wrong, I love a bit of angst in a second chance romance, but in this instance I appreciated the fact that there wasn’t any of that. Dustin and Kenzie seemed to fall back into old habits, but in the best way. They still had a shit ton of chemistry and you could tell as soon as they saw each other again that it was going to be pretty intense between these two.
The friendship group that featured in this story was also pretty bloody epic. I loved how they all had each others backs, but also weren’t afraid to tell one another some hard truths.
Thinking ‘Bout You was small town goodness and I cannot wait to read more about these characters, especially Willa and Nash, there is definitely a story there (and maybe some serious hate banging, just sayin’).
THE BAD ☹️
Not a thing.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: Fabulous small town romance centred around an epic friendship group, loved it
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Claire Hastings
Hero/Heroine: Dustin & Kenzie
Tropes: Second Chance, Celebrity, Friends to Lovers, Small Town,
TW/CW: Parent with cancer, mention of parental abandonment,
THE GOOD 😀
I’m back in my small town era folks! This has to be one of my favourite tropes and it was so well written in Thinking ‘Bout You.
Dustin, a big time country singer, is back in his hometown to perform at a local music and beer festival, and the one thing he’s looking forward to is seeing his ex, Kenzie. She, on the other hand, has come up with a plan to avoid Dustin for fear of falling for his charms again. As you can probably guess, that plan goes up in smoke when they run into each other for the first time after seven years.
I think the one thing that I loved about this book (apart from the amazing friendship group) is that Dustin and Kenzie weren’t at each others throats when they see each other again. Don’t get me wrong, I love a bit of angst in a second chance romance, but in this instance I appreciated the fact that there wasn’t any of that. Dustin and Kenzie seemed to fall back into old habits, but in the best way. They still had a shit ton of chemistry and you could tell as soon as they saw each other again that it was going to be pretty intense between these two.
The friendship group that featured in this story was also pretty bloody epic. I loved how they all had each others backs, but also weren’t afraid to tell one another some hard truths.
Thinking ‘Bout You was small town goodness and I cannot wait to read more about these characters, especially Willa and Nash, there is definitely a story there (and maybe some serious hate banging, just sayin’).
THE BAD ☹️
Not a thing.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: Fabulous small town romance centred around an epic friendship group, loved it
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 30, 2023
Unfortunately had the obligatory misunderstanding at end....so lost a half star from me. Final Rating 3.5 Stars
March 22, 2023
If your a fan of small town romances then you WANT to read Claire Hastings new small town romance Thinking About You".
I've reading Claries work for awhile now and I think this book as topped my all time favorite list of hers. Claire takes this small southern town of Hickory Hills and makes you want to move there, befriend this friend group and find love.
Dustin and Mackenize fall in love during their teenage years. They share a bond and love that people dream off, everything is going right in their world until Dustin is discovered in a Karaoke bar and takes a chance on becoming a country star. Mackenzie supports him and Dustin promises to come back to her. She waits and waits until she realizes hes not coming back for her, until 7 years later she has to face the man who shattered her heart.
When Dustin returns home and has his first run in with Mackenzie you can feel the automatic pull between these two. Dustin has a lot of graveling to do. As Mackenzie tries to keep her guard up, Dustin finds ways to break it down and make her remember why they are perfect for each other because he will not walk away again.
This book is full amazing banter, strong friendships, swoony and steamy moments ( That Library and Truck scene will live rent free in my head forever). Claire Hastings has an amazing hit on her hands!
I've reading Claries work for awhile now and I think this book as topped my all time favorite list of hers. Claire takes this small southern town of Hickory Hills and makes you want to move there, befriend this friend group and find love.
Dustin and Mackenize fall in love during their teenage years. They share a bond and love that people dream off, everything is going right in their world until Dustin is discovered in a Karaoke bar and takes a chance on becoming a country star. Mackenzie supports him and Dustin promises to come back to her. She waits and waits until she realizes hes not coming back for her, until 7 years later she has to face the man who shattered her heart.
When Dustin returns home and has his first run in with Mackenzie you can feel the automatic pull between these two. Dustin has a lot of graveling to do. As Mackenzie tries to keep her guard up, Dustin finds ways to break it down and make her remember why they are perfect for each other because he will not walk away again.
This book is full amazing banter, strong friendships, swoony and steamy moments ( That Library and Truck scene will live rent free in my head forever). Claire Hastings has an amazing hit on her hands!
March 23, 2023
I love small town stories and Thinking ‘bout You was a great small town story! Dustin and Kenzie grew up together and when they were old enough to date they took a chance on each other. They had a great teenage love but when Dustin is discovered at a karaoke bar by a music agent everything changes.
Right before their senior year of college, Dustin goes to Nashville to try his hand at becoming a country star. He and Kenzie don’t break up because he is obviously going to go back to their life in September. However, Dustin succeeds. He becomes the next big country star and Kenzie and Dustin’s relationship just sort of fades away.
Fast forward 7 years, Dustin is back in town for the Rhythm and Brews festival to raise money for Kenzie’s dad. To him nothing has changed, he still loves Kenzie and wants the happily ever after they just need to figure out if it will work.
I loved this book but I must say I am dying to find out if we will get Willa and Nash next because I need to know what is going on with them!!
Thank you @clairehastings_author for the ARC!
Release Date: March 23, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥 Scene: library
Right before their senior year of college, Dustin goes to Nashville to try his hand at becoming a country star. He and Kenzie don’t break up because he is obviously going to go back to their life in September. However, Dustin succeeds. He becomes the next big country star and Kenzie and Dustin’s relationship just sort of fades away.
Fast forward 7 years, Dustin is back in town for the Rhythm and Brews festival to raise money for Kenzie’s dad. To him nothing has changed, he still loves Kenzie and wants the happily ever after they just need to figure out if it will work.
I loved this book but I must say I am dying to find out if we will get Willa and Nash next because I need to know what is going on with them!!
Thank you @clairehastings_author for the ARC!
Release Date: March 23, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥 Scene: library
March 22, 2023
I will be the first to admit that I am a sucker for two things when it comes to romance novels, one is the second chance trope and the other is that the romance is written by Claire Hastings. As fate would have it, Claire’s newest romance is a second chance romance featuring high school sweethearts finding themselves side by side as they work on their small towns annual festival, this time with a goal of raising money to help with the medical bills for Kenzie’s Dad.
From the very beginning I could feel, and relate to, the inner turmoil that Kenzie finds herself dealing with over the prospect of coming face to face with her first love, Dustin, and battling with her desire to keep him at a distance while wanting nothing more than to be back in his arms.
Combined with a wonderful case of friends and family members, Thinking ‘Bout You is a must read or romance fans and a great way to be introduced to Claire Hastings’ work if one isn’t already familiar with her writing.
From the very beginning I could feel, and relate to, the inner turmoil that Kenzie finds herself dealing with over the prospect of coming face to face with her first love, Dustin, and battling with her desire to keep him at a distance while wanting nothing more than to be back in his arms.
Combined with a wonderful case of friends and family members, Thinking ‘Bout You is a must read or romance fans and a great way to be introduced to Claire Hastings’ work if one isn’t already familiar with her writing.
January 20, 2024
Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher/author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I am leaving a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
The premise of this story really jumped out to me from the start. A MMC that goes off to become and famous music star and leaves the FMC behind with a broken heart? It just sounds so juicy that I couldn't resist. I knew that I had to read this story.
Claire Hastings is such a great storyteller. I love her down-to-earth writing style. The story flows wonderfully and her writing voice is so relatable. I enjoyed the plot of this story so much. It was entertaining and kept my interest the entire time.
I loved getting to know these characters. It was so easy to connect with them and walk in their shoes. I loved the character growth and the journey that these characters take together. This book has an excellent cast of secondary characters. I loved the friend group so much. All of the supporting characters added so much depth to the story.
Dustin and Kenzie had undeniable chemistry. You could tell that these two had a past and that it brought so much tantalizing tension into the story.
Overall, this was a fantastic second-chance story with plenty of emotion and small-town charm. I fell head over heels for these characters and the riveting plot kept me fully absorbed in the story. I can't wait for the next book in this series and I will definitely be keeping this author on my release radar.
BLOG FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM GOODREADS TIKTOK TWITTER BOOKBUB AMAZON PINTEREST KO-FI
My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
The premise of this story really jumped out to me from the start. A MMC that goes off to become and famous music star and leaves the FMC behind with a broken heart? It just sounds so juicy that I couldn't resist. I knew that I had to read this story.
Claire Hastings is such a great storyteller. I love her down-to-earth writing style. The story flows wonderfully and her writing voice is so relatable. I enjoyed the plot of this story so much. It was entertaining and kept my interest the entire time.
I loved getting to know these characters. It was so easy to connect with them and walk in their shoes. I loved the character growth and the journey that these characters take together. This book has an excellent cast of secondary characters. I loved the friend group so much. All of the supporting characters added so much depth to the story.
Dustin and Kenzie had undeniable chemistry. You could tell that these two had a past and that it brought so much tantalizing tension into the story.
Overall, this was a fantastic second-chance story with plenty of emotion and small-town charm. I fell head over heels for these characters and the riveting plot kept me fully absorbed in the story. I can't wait for the next book in this series and I will definitely be keeping this author on my release radar.
BLOG FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM GOODREADS TIKTOK TWITTER BOOKBUB AMAZON PINTEREST KO-FI
My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
April 7, 2024
3.5 stars!
This book was a second chance, country star and girl back home. . It was a cute story about a group of friends that go by the names of Kenzie, Dustin, Willa, Sylvie, Noel, and Nash.
They all grew up together and are the best of friends. Dustin and Kenzie date and fall in love with each other during high school. However, things change before senior year, Dustin gets noticed during a karaoke night and ends up becoming a number one country artist. Dustin ends up never returning back to Hickory Hills, their hometown, and never reaching out to Kenzie, to salvage their relationship or even end it.
When her father becomes ill, and a fundraiser is thrown for him. The town decides they want to reach out to Dustin in order to have him perform at the fundraiser to raise the funds that are collected.
Him coming back to town spurred things up for Kenzie and knowing she was still in love with him made things that much more difficult for her.
On the other hand, Dustin is coming back knowing he also still loves Kenzie and has the utmost amount of guilt for the way he allowed everything to pan out for them and for the simple fact that he never fought for her or even communicated with her. Although his dream is to be a singer and he loves that part of his life, he wants Kenzie in his life that much more.
Coming back to town, he does all that he can to prove to Kenzie he means what he says about being a changed man and wanted a second chance to do things the right way.
Kenzie is scared to give him the chance and tries to avoid him at all cost, but her heart does not allow her to stray far from the way she feels for Dustin.
Their love story is very cute and it’s meaningful in the sense where sometimes people change and the outcome can be the fairytale ending we all strive for.
Things I would change about this story is the progression of how it all played out. I feel as though there wasn’t that big of a fight for Dustin in winning Kenzie back. It almost came TOO easy for him because in my opinion the way he up and left was really messed up!
This book was a second chance, country star and girl back home. . It was a cute story about a group of friends that go by the names of Kenzie, Dustin, Willa, Sylvie, Noel, and Nash.
They all grew up together and are the best of friends. Dustin and Kenzie date and fall in love with each other during high school. However, things change before senior year, Dustin gets noticed during a karaoke night and ends up becoming a number one country artist. Dustin ends up never returning back to Hickory Hills, their hometown, and never reaching out to Kenzie, to salvage their relationship or even end it.
When her father becomes ill, and a fundraiser is thrown for him. The town decides they want to reach out to Dustin in order to have him perform at the fundraiser to raise the funds that are collected.
Him coming back to town spurred things up for Kenzie and knowing she was still in love with him made things that much more difficult for her.
On the other hand, Dustin is coming back knowing he also still loves Kenzie and has the utmost amount of guilt for the way he allowed everything to pan out for them and for the simple fact that he never fought for her or even communicated with her. Although his dream is to be a singer and he loves that part of his life, he wants Kenzie in his life that much more.
Coming back to town, he does all that he can to prove to Kenzie he means what he says about being a changed man and wanted a second chance to do things the right way.
Kenzie is scared to give him the chance and tries to avoid him at all cost, but her heart does not allow her to stray far from the way she feels for Dustin.
Their love story is very cute and it’s meaningful in the sense where sometimes people change and the outcome can be the fairytale ending we all strive for.
Things I would change about this story is the progression of how it all played out. I feel as though there wasn’t that big of a fight for Dustin in winning Kenzie back. It almost came TOO easy for him because in my opinion the way he up and left was really messed up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2023
For librarian Kenzie Noble, this year's edition of the annual Rhythm and Brews Festival is extra special because its proceeds will go towards the cost of cancer treatment for her father, Ken. The problem is that it also means coming face-to-face with her ex-boyfriend, country music star Dustin Wilder, who has agreed to play a free show as part of the event. Kenzie and Dustin's relationship ended awkwardly - or rather, it didn't really end at all. Seven years ago, he left for a summer in Nashville with promises to return, but never did. Kenzie was left brokenhearted when she finally realized that Dustin wasn't coming back, and even though she tried to move on, she never quite got over her first love. Dustin's never gotten over Kenzie either, and being back with her in their hometown of Hickory Hills, Georgia has him thinking about second chances. But just as it did before, life is pulling them in two very different directions. Can Dustin and Kenzie find a way to make it work this time?
Kenzie and Dustin were both incredibly likeable, relatable characters and their chemistry remained strong even after so many years apart. I particularly appreciated that Dustin was so unlike a "typical" celebrity or rock star; he remained down-to-earth in his interactions with friends and family, and when he apologized to Kenzie for the way he handled things after he left seven years ago, it was obviously sincere. I could tell that he never wanted to hurt her in the first place and just got caught up in circumstances that he didn't know how to handle, which made it easier to root for her to give him a second chance.
I loved this sweet yet perfectly steamy story and highly recommend it for all contemporary romance fans. Hopefully this is just the first of many books set in Hickory Hills! I'd love to read future stories about Dustin and Kenzie's friends.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Kenzie and Dustin were both incredibly likeable, relatable characters and their chemistry remained strong even after so many years apart. I particularly appreciated that Dustin was so unlike a "typical" celebrity or rock star; he remained down-to-earth in his interactions with friends and family, and when he apologized to Kenzie for the way he handled things after he left seven years ago, it was obviously sincere. I could tell that he never wanted to hurt her in the first place and just got caught up in circumstances that he didn't know how to handle, which made it easier to root for her to give him a second chance.
I loved this sweet yet perfectly steamy story and highly recommend it for all contemporary romance fans. Hopefully this is just the first of many books set in Hickory Hills! I'd love to read future stories about Dustin and Kenzie's friends.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 22, 2023
Loved it!! I loved Dustin and Kenzie's story! I love small town romance and this was a great one!
If you love small town, second chance, country rockstar then definitely check Dustin and Kenzie's book out!
Dustin followed his dream of being a country singer after being discovered in a karaoke bar with Kenzie. He left behind his highschool sweetheart hoping to come back to continue their plans together. But, things didn't go as they hoped and they grew apart. Fast forward seven years, and Dustin finds himself back in their hometown where Kenzie is the town's librarian.
They reconnect but Kenzie is hesitant because she's afraid of the past repeating. She stayed behind in their hometown due to her sick father and works as the town's librarian. She loves her job and her small town so she doesn't regret staying. I loved watching these two reconnect and rekindle their attraction and love for one another after Dustin comes back. Their chemistry is so steamy and that library scene was so hot! Wowza!
I loved the characters and felt the story flowed smoothly. Dustin and Kenzie's friends are hilarious! I really hope they get their own books and can't wait to see if they do! I definitely recommend!
If you love small town, second chance, country rockstar then definitely check Dustin and Kenzie's book out!
Dustin followed his dream of being a country singer after being discovered in a karaoke bar with Kenzie. He left behind his highschool sweetheart hoping to come back to continue their plans together. But, things didn't go as they hoped and they grew apart. Fast forward seven years, and Dustin finds himself back in their hometown where Kenzie is the town's librarian.
They reconnect but Kenzie is hesitant because she's afraid of the past repeating. She stayed behind in their hometown due to her sick father and works as the town's librarian. She loves her job and her small town so she doesn't regret staying. I loved watching these two reconnect and rekindle their attraction and love for one another after Dustin comes back. Their chemistry is so steamy and that library scene was so hot! Wowza!
I loved the characters and felt the story flowed smoothly. Dustin and Kenzie's friends are hilarious! I really hope they get their own books and can't wait to see if they do! I definitely recommend!
February 25, 2023
Dustin and Kenzie will make you happy, sad, angry, nostalgic, worried, and happy again before they’re done with you. And while you’ll want to scream at the stupid, STUPID moves one made then and might be on the verge of making now, you’ll also want to scream at the lack of communication for a second. Because while these two are excellent at reconnecting and trying to find their way, they do stumble a bit, as real relationships can do. Even with that, though, they manage to find their way. And a certain angry warrior woman named Willa is exactly what the doctor ordered to pull both Dustin and Kenzie back from the brink of total depression.
And the absolute best part of this one? Dustin is not at all what you’d think he is. And he’s not afraid to admit that to Kenzie. So you have to adore a guy like that. I won’t ruin it, but I will say that his momentary dumb guy move is more than made up for by everything else he says and does. But now I have to hope that Willa and a guy who annoys her have something more to tell us. Maybe…just maybe…there’s more than meets the annoyed eye for those two!
And the absolute best part of this one? Dustin is not at all what you’d think he is. And he’s not afraid to admit that to Kenzie. So you have to adore a guy like that. I won’t ruin it, but I will say that his momentary dumb guy move is more than made up for by everything else he says and does. But now I have to hope that Willa and a guy who annoys her have something more to tell us. Maybe…just maybe…there’s more than meets the annoyed eye for those two!
February 26, 2023
If you love second chances, dual pov, small town vibes, feelings of nostalgia, country music, wholesome love & the giddiness a good love story then this book is for you!
Ive never read a book like this since they aren’t usually my thing since I grew up in a small rural town but I honestly loved this book! This book gives you the small town feeling with the southern sweetness of Georgia. It’s like one of those movies that when you watch it gives you that warm feeling inside & you leave feeling giddy about love & life. Honestly I love the way that Dustin talks about Kenzie & how sweet he is to her it melts my heart it’s wholesome. I love the little sarcastic jokes & the inner voices of each character that make them feel real & normal/relatable. The characters in here (Dustin, Kenzie, Nash, Noel, Willa, Sylvie, Ken, Helena, etc) are all lovable & relatable. I couldn’t put this book down I loved every second of it. I definitely recommend it & I was very pleased with the ending which normally that’s what can make or break a book for me. To me the end wrapped it all up perfectly!
Ive never read a book like this since they aren’t usually my thing since I grew up in a small rural town but I honestly loved this book! This book gives you the small town feeling with the southern sweetness of Georgia. It’s like one of those movies that when you watch it gives you that warm feeling inside & you leave feeling giddy about love & life. Honestly I love the way that Dustin talks about Kenzie & how sweet he is to her it melts my heart it’s wholesome. I love the little sarcastic jokes & the inner voices of each character that make them feel real & normal/relatable. The characters in here (Dustin, Kenzie, Nash, Noel, Willa, Sylvie, Ken, Helena, etc) are all lovable & relatable. I couldn’t put this book down I loved every second of it. I definitely recommend it & I was very pleased with the ending which normally that’s what can make or break a book for me. To me the end wrapped it all up perfectly!
August 14, 2025
It takes Dustin 7 years to come home. And it's only because the town asks him to perform at a fundraiser. He talks about how much he loves Kenzie and that she's the only one for him, but not once in 7 years does he reach out to her. No, he ghosts her and then decides she's worth it after she reaches out to him. Then he comes home and "apologizes". An apology that lacked any real substance. There was no explanation for why he ghosted her after saying they'd still be together. There was no accountability for his actions and he did not make any indications he'd do better in the future. This non-apology pretty much ruined the book for me. Especially after Kenzie basically swoons at it. She should have more self-respect than to accept that.
I read the reviews where people said the same thing, but I wanted to read the series from the start. I should have listened to those reviews and just skipped this book.
I read the reviews where people said the same thing, but I wanted to read the series from the start. I should have listened to those reviews and just skipped this book.
March 30, 2023
I haven’t read much by Claire Hastings and I’m struggling to understand why because after reading Dustin and Kenzie’s journey I need more from this very talented author. If like me you love small town romance and second chances at love look no further than Thinking ‘Bout You.
Countrymusic Star Dustin is back in his home town for the annual Rhythm and Brews Festival and his homecoming causes Kenzie to remember what they had before he left to become a star……
From the moment this couple are back in the same room sparks fly and it’s not long before they realise they have never gotten over each other so what does the future hold for Dustin and Kenzie and more importantly is it in Hickory Hills, Georgia. One click to find out.
This book ticked all my boxes, I smiled, I giggled, I swooned and I cheered his couple on. A wonderful, entertaining yet emotional read that I highly recommend.
Countrymusic Star Dustin is back in his home town for the annual Rhythm and Brews Festival and his homecoming causes Kenzie to remember what they had before he left to become a star……
From the moment this couple are back in the same room sparks fly and it’s not long before they realise they have never gotten over each other so what does the future hold for Dustin and Kenzie and more importantly is it in Hickory Hills, Georgia. One click to find out.
This book ticked all my boxes, I smiled, I giggled, I swooned and I cheered his couple on. A wonderful, entertaining yet emotional read that I highly recommend.
April 26, 2024
Second Chance
Country Musician
Good Girl
Small Town
I absolutely loved this! Starting this Hickory Hills series starts off strong … the banter, the dual POV, the back of the truck in the rain storm…
6 best friends… 2 fell in love. What happens when Dustin leaves for Nashville? He leaves Kenzie wanting for two years thinking she’s going to get her fairytale.
After 7 years… Dustin is asked to come back and be part of the Rhythm and Blues Festival as part of a special fundraiser.
What happens when Dustin strolls back into town and sees that life has gone on without him? Can Kenzie forgive him?
Country Musician
Good Girl
Small Town
I absolutely loved this! Starting this Hickory Hills series starts off strong … the banter, the dual POV, the back of the truck in the rain storm…
6 best friends… 2 fell in love. What happens when Dustin leaves for Nashville? He leaves Kenzie wanting for two years thinking she’s going to get her fairytale.
After 7 years… Dustin is asked to come back and be part of the Rhythm and Blues Festival as part of a special fundraiser.
What happens when Dustin strolls back into town and sees that life has gone on without him? Can Kenzie forgive him?
January 10, 2024
Hold still my heart - these two were adorable. Their connection even after 7 years is still going strong. Their break up has left a huge hole in both their lives. While Dustin has become a huge country star, Kenzie has stayed home and made a life for herself.
But life has brought them together again and Dustin is taking his offered second chance. He needs to show her he is not the boy who left her behind but a man willing to move mountains to keep her forever.
Kenzie never stopped loving him but giving her heart to him again is not an easy task. But letting him leave without her just might be the biggest mistake of her life and they're not going to let being too stubborn to ruin the HEA.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
But life has brought them together again and Dustin is taking his offered second chance. He needs to show her he is not the boy who left her behind but a man willing to move mountains to keep her forever.
Kenzie never stopped loving him but giving her heart to him again is not an easy task. But letting him leave without her just might be the biggest mistake of her life and they're not going to let being too stubborn to ruin the HEA.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
January 10, 2024
When I saw that this book was a second chance I almost didn't read it, then I saw that MMC was a country singer and I said to myself well that's interesting let's read it and let me tell you thank goodness I did!!! It exceeded my expectations and I liked the trope here, they didn't break up because of a very serious thing and when they meet again their feelings are still intact, these two were high school sweethearts, best friends but when Dustin gets the opportunity to be a country star he doesn't think twice but leaves his town and his girlfriend behind. Now, here I will tell you that it seemed to me that Kenzie forgives him very quickly and made me not give the book a full rating but at the same time I see that there was no big drama between them when they met again made me feel affection for these two characters..
A story that grabs you from the beginning and flows in such a way that when you least expect it you have already finished it and you just want to look for love songs but country love songs.
✨ Thanks to Foreword PR & Marketing for the digital copy in exchange for my honest review!!
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Cuando vi que este libro era un second chance casi no lo leo, luego vi que el MMC era un cantante de country y me dije, bueno esto es interesante así que vamos a leerlo, y déjenme decirles que menos mal hice eso!!! Supero las expectativas que tenía y me gusto el trope aquí, no se separaron por una cosa muy grave y cuando se vuelven a encontrar los sentimientos aún están intactos, estos dos fueron novios desde el colegio, mejores amigos pero cuando Dustin se le da la oportunidad de ser una estrella del country no lo piensa dos veces pero deja atrás a su pueblo y a su novia, ahora bien, aquí les dire que me pareció que Kenzie lo perdona muy rápido y hizo que no le diera una puntuación completa pero a la vez ver que entre ellos no había un gran drama cuando se volvieron a encontrar me hizo agarrarle mucho cariño a estos dos personajes, una historia que te agarra desde el principio y fluye de tal manera que cuando menos te lo esperas ya la has terminado y solo quieres buscar canciones de amor pero country.
A story that grabs you from the beginning and flows in such a way that when you least expect it you have already finished it and you just want to look for love songs but country love songs.
✨ Thanks to Foreword PR & Marketing for the digital copy in exchange for my honest review!!
---
Cuando vi que este libro era un second chance casi no lo leo, luego vi que el MMC era un cantante de country y me dije, bueno esto es interesante así que vamos a leerlo, y déjenme decirles que menos mal hice eso!!! Supero las expectativas que tenía y me gusto el trope aquí, no se separaron por una cosa muy grave y cuando se vuelven a encontrar los sentimientos aún están intactos, estos dos fueron novios desde el colegio, mejores amigos pero cuando Dustin se le da la oportunidad de ser una estrella del country no lo piensa dos veces pero deja atrás a su pueblo y a su novia, ahora bien, aquí les dire que me pareció que Kenzie lo perdona muy rápido y hizo que no le diera una puntuación completa pero a la vez ver que entre ellos no había un gran drama cuando se volvieron a encontrar me hizo agarrarle mucho cariño a estos dos personajes, una historia que te agarra desde el principio y fluye de tal manera que cuando menos te lo esperas ya la has terminado y solo quieres buscar canciones de amor pero country.
December 4, 2025
A truly wonderful read!
This book is amazing! You’re going to need lots of tissues though. This one really tugs at your heartstrings. Get your copy today! ❤️❤️
This book is amazing! You’re going to need lots of tissues though. This one really tugs at your heartstrings. Get your copy today! ❤️❤️
April 8, 2023
This book... SIGH!!
Filled with touches of angst, steam, and some major swoon...this second chance story hits all the right notes making for one beautifully written love story that will definitely be plucking at your heartstrings....
I'm a sucker for a good small town romance and while I'm not really much of a country fan, this books blurb and stunning cover made me absolutely giddy to get my hands on it. Hello...country crooner back for a second chance with the girl he let slip away!
Dustin and Kenzie's story is just completely enchanted me! Like the lyrics of a beautiful and touching song...it speaks to your heart and soul. Telling a wonderfully written tale of two hometown sweethearts getting tossed around by life and then finding their way back to each other.
I devoured this book and adored all of the characters so much! It's delightful blend of friendship, love, and the joy of finding your way back home. It left me with the most fantastic melody playing in my heart!
Dustin and Kenzie had such great chemistry and I couldn't get enough of them. They have a bond and connection that is felt from the very beginning. Though their road back to each other was a little rocky, it's filled with moments that were heartbreaking, heartstealing, and oh so very steamy. Their story definitely grabbed me with all those wonderful feelings that hit in all the right ways!
What more can I say other than this story was an absolute gem and I can’t wait to see more from the small town of Hickory Hills!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own *
Filled with touches of angst, steam, and some major swoon...this second chance story hits all the right notes making for one beautifully written love story that will definitely be plucking at your heartstrings....
I'm a sucker for a good small town romance and while I'm not really much of a country fan, this books blurb and stunning cover made me absolutely giddy to get my hands on it. Hello...country crooner back for a second chance with the girl he let slip away!
Dustin and Kenzie's story is just completely enchanted me! Like the lyrics of a beautiful and touching song...it speaks to your heart and soul. Telling a wonderfully written tale of two hometown sweethearts getting tossed around by life and then finding their way back to each other.
I devoured this book and adored all of the characters so much! It's delightful blend of friendship, love, and the joy of finding your way back home. It left me with the most fantastic melody playing in my heart!
Dustin and Kenzie had such great chemistry and I couldn't get enough of them. They have a bond and connection that is felt from the very beginning. Though their road back to each other was a little rocky, it's filled with moments that were heartbreaking, heartstealing, and oh so very steamy. Their story definitely grabbed me with all those wonderful feelings that hit in all the right ways!
What more can I say other than this story was an absolute gem and I can’t wait to see more from the small town of Hickory Hills!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own *
March 29, 2023
"𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙄 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚. 𝙉𝙤 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙮 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚, 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙖𝙨 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝙗𝙚."
𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 '𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗧 𝗬𝗢𝗨 by Claire Hastings
5 Maple Leafs | 3 Flames | 2023 Top Read
A second chance at chasing falling stars while packed with sweet southern charm.
Dustin and Kenzie were childhood sweethearts and thought they were always going to be together until Dustin chased his dream. Years later Dustin is back in town to perform at the local festival and try to win back his girl.
I love Dustin and Kenzie. Their story gave me all the sweet southern vibes right from the beginning and made me want to sit with a cup of sweet tea and join them. You can feel the love between them and know they are meant to be together. I love their group of friends and hope that we are going to get their stories also.
Get ready for... small town, musician (country star), second chance, childhood sweethearts
POV... dual first-person
*A copy was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Book Blog*
Follow → ❤️ Facebook 🖤 Instagram ❤️ TikTok 🖤 Twitter ❤️ Blog
𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 '𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗧 𝗬𝗢𝗨 by Claire Hastings
5 Maple Leafs | 3 Flames | 2023 Top Read
A second chance at chasing falling stars while packed with sweet southern charm.
Dustin and Kenzie were childhood sweethearts and thought they were always going to be together until Dustin chased his dream. Years later Dustin is back in town to perform at the local festival and try to win back his girl.
I love Dustin and Kenzie. Their story gave me all the sweet southern vibes right from the beginning and made me want to sit with a cup of sweet tea and join them. You can feel the love between them and know they are meant to be together. I love their group of friends and hope that we are going to get their stories also.
Get ready for... small town, musician (country star), second chance, childhood sweethearts
POV... dual first-person
*A copy was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Book Blog*
Follow → ❤️ Facebook 🖤 Instagram ❤️ TikTok 🖤 Twitter ❤️ Blog
December 17, 2023
What do you do when the boy you love has a chance to leave the small rural town where you both grew up and make it big? You encourage him to chase his dreams, proclaiming your undying love, knowing that somehow, you'll make a relationship work.
Except he leaves and never looks back. Time passes, life goes on, and you settle into a new normal with the comfort and support of your friends, family, and neighbors. But then he returns, a country music sensation, acting like nothing has changed, hoping to pick right back up where you left things.
This has everything I love in a great small-town romance! The setting, the people, the charm of Hickory Hills, Ga. I love this group of friends who've been together for a lifetime and can’t wait to get more of their stories. Steamy, humorous, and full of heart, this one is sure to please any small-town romance lover.
Except he leaves and never looks back. Time passes, life goes on, and you settle into a new normal with the comfort and support of your friends, family, and neighbors. But then he returns, a country music sensation, acting like nothing has changed, hoping to pick right back up where you left things.
This has everything I love in a great small-town romance! The setting, the people, the charm of Hickory Hills, Ga. I love this group of friends who've been together for a lifetime and can’t wait to get more of their stories. Steamy, humorous, and full of heart, this one is sure to please any small-town romance lover.
March 21, 2023
I love small town romances where everyone know each other, I guess since I grew up in Suburbia I have a little envy of those that live that life.
Dustin and Kenzie’s story is full of heart, tears and undeniable chemistry. He left their small town and Kenzie in the dust after he became a famous country singer. He’s invited back to town to perform, after a run in with her, he realizes to get her back, it may just be the toughest thing he’ll ever do. Especially, when there are some that are on board for their relationship.
With fun and flirty back and forth banter, and let’s not forget to mention all the steamy moments. I love finding new authors, I can wait to go back and read more of Ms. Hastings books.
Dustin and Kenzie’s story is full of heart, tears and undeniable chemistry. He left their small town and Kenzie in the dust after he became a famous country singer. He’s invited back to town to perform, after a run in with her, he realizes to get her back, it may just be the toughest thing he’ll ever do. Especially, when there are some that are on board for their relationship.
With fun and flirty back and forth banter, and let’s not forget to mention all the steamy moments. I love finding new authors, I can wait to go back and read more of Ms. Hastings books.
October 28, 2024
Reviewers note: While I had issues with this book, the secondary characters made me want to read more so I continued this series. I also liked the characters in this book, but the situation between them to be honest ticked me off a lot, like a lot, a lot. So if you chose to read this one just know that I have now read the rest of the series and started on the companion series and I enjoyed them much more than this one. Again not because of the characters per se, but because of the character’s actions (yep, both of them).
I love small town series and I love a series that revolves around family and found family, so on the recommendation of a friend, I picked up Thinking ‘Bout You by Claire Hastings. I immediately got caught up in the town of Hickory Hills and the residents (although the old lady gossip mongers need to mind their own damn business).
Country music sensation Dustin Wild (Dusty Wilder) is headed back home to headline the Rhythm and Brews festival and he hopes to reclaim the girl (now woman) he left behind almost a decade ago. In high school Dustin and Kenzie were the “couple goals” couple and seemed to have it all figured out until one day a talent scout handed him a card and said to call him and with Kenzie’s blessing he did. He left home for Nashville promising to come back or have Kenzie join him but it never happened. Here is my issue with the story; he got so caught up in becoming a star, recording, touring, opening a bar with his name attached and he never had down time to make a damn phone call or get on a plane to see the woman he was supposedly so in love with. Hell, he flew his Mama out to see him; he couldn’t do the same for Kenzie? So nope, I don’t buy this part of the story and I also don’t buy the part where this “rock star” as all his friends call him lived a chaste life while becoming famous. Yeah, I just spoiled that for you so you don’t have to roll your eyes and call bullsh*t when you read it. He freaking LEFT HER, little contact, then no contact and so when he started appearing with models, actresses, and other musicians she just figured they were done. Who the F*CK does that to someone they supposedly love and supposedly still love when they return?
Meanwhile Kenzie got her degree and took over the town library. She intended to become a teacher but the town needed a librarian so she got her library science degree. Her beloved dad has been diagnosed with cancer and the town is using the proceeds from the festival to help pay for his medical bills which is why Dustin is coming home after all these years. Kenzie has two friends who are more like sisters and two men (twins) who along with Dustin completed their friend group and have stood by her and helped her through when Dustin ghosted her and while they are still friendly with Dustin, they are concerned about Kenzie. Kenzie is determined not to let Dustin’s return interfere with her life but unfortunately she doesn’t stick to that because the memories of their good times, and her traitorous body (ugh) want him today as much as they did back then. Add her scheming Dad and friends and she didn’t stand a chance.
Was this a love conquers all story? Maybe, but for me it was yet another book billed as a romance where the heroine was treated like absolute sh*t and she lets the guy get away with it because of their shared history. Dustin never really apologized or even really explained why he ghosted her and never came back until now. Thankfully Kenzie didn’t sit around and wait for Dustin (if she had this would have been 2 stars) and even had a semi-regular hook-up with a guy in town who was super chill when she and Dustin got back together and he deserves to find “the one” for that action alone.
While the “romance” in this book was in my opinion lacking, I did like the main characters and the secondary characters truly piqued my interest enough to push on through the series.
I love small town series and I love a series that revolves around family and found family, so on the recommendation of a friend, I picked up Thinking ‘Bout You by Claire Hastings. I immediately got caught up in the town of Hickory Hills and the residents (although the old lady gossip mongers need to mind their own damn business).
Country music sensation Dustin Wild (Dusty Wilder) is headed back home to headline the Rhythm and Brews festival and he hopes to reclaim the girl (now woman) he left behind almost a decade ago. In high school Dustin and Kenzie were the “couple goals” couple and seemed to have it all figured out until one day a talent scout handed him a card and said to call him and with Kenzie’s blessing he did. He left home for Nashville promising to come back or have Kenzie join him but it never happened. Here is my issue with the story; he got so caught up in becoming a star, recording, touring, opening a bar with his name attached and he never had down time to make a damn phone call or get on a plane to see the woman he was supposedly so in love with. Hell, he flew his Mama out to see him; he couldn’t do the same for Kenzie? So nope, I don’t buy this part of the story and I also don’t buy the part where this “rock star” as all his friends call him lived a chaste life while becoming famous. Yeah, I just spoiled that for you so you don’t have to roll your eyes and call bullsh*t when you read it. He freaking LEFT HER, little contact, then no contact and so when he started appearing with models, actresses, and other musicians she just figured they were done. Who the F*CK does that to someone they supposedly love and supposedly still love when they return?
Meanwhile Kenzie got her degree and took over the town library. She intended to become a teacher but the town needed a librarian so she got her library science degree. Her beloved dad has been diagnosed with cancer and the town is using the proceeds from the festival to help pay for his medical bills which is why Dustin is coming home after all these years. Kenzie has two friends who are more like sisters and two men (twins) who along with Dustin completed their friend group and have stood by her and helped her through when Dustin ghosted her and while they are still friendly with Dustin, they are concerned about Kenzie. Kenzie is determined not to let Dustin’s return interfere with her life but unfortunately she doesn’t stick to that because the memories of their good times, and her traitorous body (ugh) want him today as much as they did back then. Add her scheming Dad and friends and she didn’t stand a chance.
Was this a love conquers all story? Maybe, but for me it was yet another book billed as a romance where the heroine was treated like absolute sh*t and she lets the guy get away with it because of their shared history. Dustin never really apologized or even really explained why he ghosted her and never came back until now. Thankfully Kenzie didn’t sit around and wait for Dustin (if she had this would have been 2 stars) and even had a semi-regular hook-up with a guy in town who was super chill when she and Dustin got back together and he deserves to find “the one” for that action alone.
While the “romance” in this book was in my opinion lacking, I did like the main characters and the secondary characters truly piqued my interest enough to push on through the series.
March 3, 2023
This should be your next nostalgic, feel-good yet angsty, heartfelt romance book! Claire Hastings perfectly captured the true charm of a small, southern town that is filled with gossips, long winded histories, those couples that were always meant to be, and friendships rooted in bonfires and mischief. Dustin and Kenzie’s chemistry is pure and magnetic and you can feel it in your soul. Their four best friends will keep you in stitches, give you a bit of intrigue and want of some continued stories, and most importantly, craving your own tribe of besties.
Kenzie is a complex woman that we slowly get to see unravel until all we have is her heartstrings. The love of her life basically abandoned her and their future, leaving her empty inside and making it hard to find a true relationship with any man, but she continues her life with warmth and a smile on her face. No matter the heartache, 7 years still hasn’t erased the love in her heart for Dustin Wilder. When he comes to town for a festival to benefit her father’s cancer treatment costs, she wants so badly to put distance between herself and Dustin, but understands that there’s a magnetic force that draws them together. With such an intimate knowledge of each others minds and bodies, it’s too much to resist and she allows herself what the heart wants, knowing it can and will end with her heartbreak again.
Dustin never meant to leave Kenzie and their dreams behind. But the life of a budding country music artist caused him to do just that. Too caught up with his career, he never truly ends things with the love of his life, not that he would have wanted to anyways. Dustin has so many regrets and apologies to give to Kenzie if only given the chance. But old habits seem to die hard for Kenzie and Dustin and Kenzie decides she not going to be on the losing side this go-around and before Dustin can go back to his career she lays out her feelings. Find out how this couple leaves more broken than when they started or how in the world a small town librarian and a country music super star can find common ground.
Kenzie is a complex woman that we slowly get to see unravel until all we have is her heartstrings. The love of her life basically abandoned her and their future, leaving her empty inside and making it hard to find a true relationship with any man, but she continues her life with warmth and a smile on her face. No matter the heartache, 7 years still hasn’t erased the love in her heart for Dustin Wilder. When he comes to town for a festival to benefit her father’s cancer treatment costs, she wants so badly to put distance between herself and Dustin, but understands that there’s a magnetic force that draws them together. With such an intimate knowledge of each others minds and bodies, it’s too much to resist and she allows herself what the heart wants, knowing it can and will end with her heartbreak again.
Dustin never meant to leave Kenzie and their dreams behind. But the life of a budding country music artist caused him to do just that. Too caught up with his career, he never truly ends things with the love of his life, not that he would have wanted to anyways. Dustin has so many regrets and apologies to give to Kenzie if only given the chance. But old habits seem to die hard for Kenzie and Dustin and Kenzie decides she not going to be on the losing side this go-around and before Dustin can go back to his career she lays out her feelings. Find out how this couple leaves more broken than when they started or how in the world a small town librarian and a country music super star can find common ground.
March 27, 2023
It's so heartbreaking when one party in a relationship realizes their dream and then the relationship just…seems to fade into the background. Like, their partner isn't an important part of their life anymore.
Kenzie and Dustin were childhood friends. When they were old enough to date, they decided to give dating a try. Their relationship was everything. Sweet, solid, and enviable by their friends. One night while they're out at karaoke, a music agent approaches Dustin. That's the night that changes the trajectory of both of their lives.
Fast forward through college, before senior year starts, Dustin decides to give Nashville a go. Kenzie stays behind, which kind of made me shake my head. Dustin has good intentions of returning in September for senior year to start. However, bad roads are paved with good intentions. Dustin's endeavors in the City of Music are successful and he never returns. He's swept up in bright lights and big fame, leaving Kenzie and their relationship in the dark. This part made me so damn mad.
Fast forward again, 7 years later, and Dustin is back in their hometown to play a gig at a festival to raise money for Kenzie's dad. Kenzie has become a librarian (envy you girl!) and pretty much loves her life. She tries so hard to resist Dustin and keep her walls up around him. He hurt her so badly that she doesn't want him to be able to hurt her again.
As with all romances, there has to be an epic grovel and Dustin's is truly epic. I did enjoy that. The miscommunication trope is wearing on me, so I may have to step away from that. I wanted to just throttle them both for that. All in all, it's a very well written book with relatable characters and a storyline that is easy to follow.
👉🏻💥Always check the TW/CW💥👈🏻
Anywho! Time to wrap this up with the goodies:
Read: 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 2🌶🌶
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Kenzie and Dustin were childhood friends. When they were old enough to date, they decided to give dating a try. Their relationship was everything. Sweet, solid, and enviable by their friends. One night while they're out at karaoke, a music agent approaches Dustin. That's the night that changes the trajectory of both of their lives.
Fast forward through college, before senior year starts, Dustin decides to give Nashville a go. Kenzie stays behind, which kind of made me shake my head. Dustin has good intentions of returning in September for senior year to start. However, bad roads are paved with good intentions. Dustin's endeavors in the City of Music are successful and he never returns. He's swept up in bright lights and big fame, leaving Kenzie and their relationship in the dark. This part made me so damn mad.
Fast forward again, 7 years later, and Dustin is back in their hometown to play a gig at a festival to raise money for Kenzie's dad. Kenzie has become a librarian (envy you girl!) and pretty much loves her life. She tries so hard to resist Dustin and keep her walls up around him. He hurt her so badly that she doesn't want him to be able to hurt her again.
As with all romances, there has to be an epic grovel and Dustin's is truly epic. I did enjoy that. The miscommunication trope is wearing on me, so I may have to step away from that. I wanted to just throttle them both for that. All in all, it's a very well written book with relatable characters and a storyline that is easy to follow.
👉🏻💥Always check the TW/CW💥👈🏻
Anywho! Time to wrap this up with the goodies:
Read: 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 2🌶🌶
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 11, 2023
I wanted to really dislike Dustin for leaving Kenzie high and dry for SEVEN YEARS! Who does that?! Country super stars do that apparently. Listen, I get it… that world takes you by storm and you’ve got tours then recording then tours then recording and you’re at the mercy of your label. I get it. But do they not have cell phones? This wasn’t like 30 years ago. And Georgia and Tennessee aren’t that far apart. They tooootally could have made it work. But I digress. Here we are 7 years later and Dustin is swoon-freaking-tastic, singing all his songs about her TO her! Anyway, I loved this book. It was so beautifully written. As a country music fan and romance indie author reader it was great to see both my favorite music and authors making a presence in the book via their books and songs. Now I REALLY want to know about Willa and Nash and hope there’s a story in the works for them.
I kind of alluded to this above but our MMC Dustin had the opportunity of a lifetime to go to Nashville and live our his pipe dream of being a country singer. Even at the insistence of his girlfriend, but he promised to be back before the beginning of senior year. That didn’t happen, and 7 years later he’s back in town for the annual Rhythm and Brews festival as the headliner.
Kenzie has picked up the pieces of her broken heart. First when she first watched him leave, then again when he didn’t come back for senior year, then finally two years later when she realized he was never coming back for her. She’s over Dustin Wilder. Now that he’s back in town 7 years after he first left, all she has to do is just steer clear of him and she’ll stay over him. That’s all easier said than done when they’ve always been metal to magnet. Will Dustin being in town be the straw to break the camels back, or will it ultimately mend all the broken pieces to both of their hearts and bring them back together once and for all?
I kind of alluded to this above but our MMC Dustin had the opportunity of a lifetime to go to Nashville and live our his pipe dream of being a country singer. Even at the insistence of his girlfriend, but he promised to be back before the beginning of senior year. That didn’t happen, and 7 years later he’s back in town for the annual Rhythm and Brews festival as the headliner.
Kenzie has picked up the pieces of her broken heart. First when she first watched him leave, then again when he didn’t come back for senior year, then finally two years later when she realized he was never coming back for her. She’s over Dustin Wilder. Now that he’s back in town 7 years after he first left, all she has to do is just steer clear of him and she’ll stay over him. That’s all easier said than done when they’ve always been metal to magnet. Will Dustin being in town be the straw to break the camels back, or will it ultimately mend all the broken pieces to both of their hearts and bring them back together once and for all?
August 1, 2023
WILD for this love story ❤️
Many years ago, Kenzie was in love with Dusty. They were meant to be together forever. Until they weren’t. Dustin Wilder left that small Georgia town for Nashville and became Dustin Wild, the famous country music star. And now years later after being wildly successful, Dustin Wild has returned to headline a local summer celebration where the funds raised would go to help Kenzie’s father as he battles cancer. The whole town is excited but Kenzie is torn as she still loves and remembers the heartache this man left her in years ago. As one of the town librarians, she is also on the planning committee of the celebration. Dustin has returned for 2 weeks and he’s got a lot to make up for.
I liked the chemistry between the group of friends that Kenzie and Dustin grew up with. They are loyal to each other to a fault and refuse to betray that trust. The story between Kenzie and Dustin is filled with the regrets of the “should have’s” of their lives. Dustin should have called, he should have apologized, Kenzie should have moved on. But it takes seeing each other again to realize that all of the “should have’s” will never matter as much as the “will do’s” right now. Regrets will always happen but it’s learning to forgive the faults of the past, grieving the regrets and then moving on to building something new. They also learn that its not always going to be perfect but it’s worth it in the end. Its not to say that the love they held as young teens didn’t matter, but that the love they held now understood the brevity of the emotions, commitment, and impact of what “love” truly means. It took time learning from their mistakes to be more than just a heartbreaking country song.
Many years ago, Kenzie was in love with Dusty. They were meant to be together forever. Until they weren’t. Dustin Wilder left that small Georgia town for Nashville and became Dustin Wild, the famous country music star. And now years later after being wildly successful, Dustin Wild has returned to headline a local summer celebration where the funds raised would go to help Kenzie’s father as he battles cancer. The whole town is excited but Kenzie is torn as she still loves and remembers the heartache this man left her in years ago. As one of the town librarians, she is also on the planning committee of the celebration. Dustin has returned for 2 weeks and he’s got a lot to make up for.
I liked the chemistry between the group of friends that Kenzie and Dustin grew up with. They are loyal to each other to a fault and refuse to betray that trust. The story between Kenzie and Dustin is filled with the regrets of the “should have’s” of their lives. Dustin should have called, he should have apologized, Kenzie should have moved on. But it takes seeing each other again to realize that all of the “should have’s” will never matter as much as the “will do’s” right now. Regrets will always happen but it’s learning to forgive the faults of the past, grieving the regrets and then moving on to building something new. They also learn that its not always going to be perfect but it’s worth it in the end. Its not to say that the love they held as young teens didn’t matter, but that the love they held now understood the brevity of the emotions, commitment, and impact of what “love” truly means. It took time learning from their mistakes to be more than just a heartbreaking country song.
January 7, 2024
I just love it when we get to see two people that were always destined to be together, find their way back. It is never an easy path as one is always hurt when one has walked away, but they both realize that there was never anyone else and the love that they felt before was always there. That is the case when it comes to Kenzie and her only love Dustin. 7 years ago, Dustin left their small town and never looked back. He dreamed of becoming a country music star and he achieved it. One phone call is all it took for Dustin to rework his schedule and make arrangements to sing at the small-town’s annual fundraiser. What usually is for raising money for school, is set to raise money for Kenzie’s dad who needs medical treatment. Kenzie’s dad has always been an important person in Dustin’s life even while he was making a name for himself. As Kenzie does everything, she can not to cross paths with Dustin, it doesn’t stop him from making it his mission to see her.
Here's the thing, I love that the fire was still there for both of them when they reconnected. Kenzie holds on to that hurt that he caused her when he left. She understands that he needed to leave to chase his dreams, she just never thought it would be without her. As she learns to trust again, she realizes just how much he means to her. However, things still happen that will shake that trust up a little bit. Dustin in all of this, has done everything he could do to make those dreams happen, but not forgetting who he is or where he is from. Most of all he didn’t forget the one person that will forever mean everything to him. These two are just so good for each other and this was a great read.
Here's the thing, I love that the fire was still there for both of them when they reconnected. Kenzie holds on to that hurt that he caused her when he left. She understands that he needed to leave to chase his dreams, she just never thought it would be without her. As she learns to trust again, she realizes just how much he means to her. However, things still happen that will shake that trust up a little bit. Dustin in all of this, has done everything he could do to make those dreams happen, but not forgetting who he is or where he is from. Most of all he didn’t forget the one person that will forever mean everything to him. These two are just so good for each other and this was a great read.
August 21, 2024
Second-chance romances in a small town is one of my favorite tropes. Country star Dustin Wild comes home for a benefit concert for the father of his first (and only) love MacKenzie (Kenzie for short) after not seeing each other after he left the year before their senior year of high school to become a country artist.
When they see each other for the first time, it doesn't go particularly well. There is a lot of hurt that Kenzie carries over their breakup that really wasn't official. Dustin left and never came back. But in a lot of ways they pick up where they left off before he left. In some ways they are rebuilding the trust and he is rebuilding a bridge that was obliterated.
I loved the relationship between Ken Noble (Kenzie's father) and Dustin. It was real, honest and heartwarming. To see how much Dustin looks up to Ken and wants to do whatever he can to help pay for Ken's medical expenses makes my heart full. He really is a good and genuine guy ... even if he is a country music star. He's still so down-to-earth.
Dustin also wants to do whatever he can for Kenzie. You can see the love he still feels for her and genuinely wants only her happiness and will do whatever to ensure that.
I got lost in the book when reading it. I didn't want to put it down and it was a very good read! I recommend it.
Claire is a new-to-me author that I met at a recent book conference. I am excited to read the rest of the Hickory Hills series and other series from her. I am very happy that I stopped by her table and spoke to her. When I mentioned other authors I liked, she suggested I start with this series and she wasn't wrong.
When they see each other for the first time, it doesn't go particularly well. There is a lot of hurt that Kenzie carries over their breakup that really wasn't official. Dustin left and never came back. But in a lot of ways they pick up where they left off before he left. In some ways they are rebuilding the trust and he is rebuilding a bridge that was obliterated.
I loved the relationship between Ken Noble (Kenzie's father) and Dustin. It was real, honest and heartwarming. To see how much Dustin looks up to Ken and wants to do whatever he can to help pay for Ken's medical expenses makes my heart full. He really is a good and genuine guy ... even if he is a country music star. He's still so down-to-earth.
Dustin also wants to do whatever he can for Kenzie. You can see the love he still feels for her and genuinely wants only her happiness and will do whatever to ensure that.
I got lost in the book when reading it. I didn't want to put it down and it was a very good read! I recommend it.
Claire is a new-to-me author that I met at a recent book conference. I am excited to read the rest of the Hickory Hills series and other series from her. I am very happy that I stopped by her table and spoke to her. When I mentioned other authors I liked, she suggested I start with this series and she wasn't wrong.
March 21, 2023
Thinking 'Bout You by Claire Hastings is a small-town, rockstar, second-chance romance. I was drawn into this book from the first chapter. The characters were well thought out and written in perfect detail. They were complex and had depth. I loved the interaction of all the characters. I could hear the North Carolina accent when reading the monologue. This story is beautifully written, with amazing detail, vivid descriptions, and a captivating storyline. I turned the pages to see what type of shenanigans they would get up to next. The spice level was through the roof too.
Kenzie is witty, stubborn, and a free spirit. She is learning to move on from a broken heart years after it happened. I loved how she had her pack of friends that were there for her and helped her discover how to live again. Dusitn is the country rockstar that left the small-town behind. He also left something else behind that he is desperate to get back. They are just trying to figure out where they can fit together again. I enjoyed the push and pull between them. It was fun to read about their epic love from the past and the angst of the present they go through during this book trying to stay away or to be friends. It was an epic love story that took me on a crazy, fun, heartbreaking, and heartwarming ride I didn't want to get off of.
Thinking 'Bout You was the first book I have read by Claire Hastings, and I enjoyed every minute of this book. If you like books like Hitting the Wall by Cate C. Wells then you will enjoy this book.
4.5 stars- Brooke
Kenzie is witty, stubborn, and a free spirit. She is learning to move on from a broken heart years after it happened. I loved how she had her pack of friends that were there for her and helped her discover how to live again. Dusitn is the country rockstar that left the small-town behind. He also left something else behind that he is desperate to get back. They are just trying to figure out where they can fit together again. I enjoyed the push and pull between them. It was fun to read about their epic love from the past and the angst of the present they go through during this book trying to stay away or to be friends. It was an epic love story that took me on a crazy, fun, heartbreaking, and heartwarming ride I didn't want to get off of.
Thinking 'Bout You was the first book I have read by Claire Hastings, and I enjoyed every minute of this book. If you like books like Hitting the Wall by Cate C. Wells then you will enjoy this book.
4.5 stars- Brooke
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