The next generation of the Southern Boys returns in a new spin-off series, Brooklet Dreams… best friends, and by the time we turned sixteen, we were more. I had eyes for only one girl. My girl.
But then life changed, and different paths led to broken promises. When she left town, I was forced to let go of our dreams.
I spent my days existing. Baseball, classes, and working at the family farm became my life. I didn’t care about anything else. Until I met Allison Jo.
AJ was the quiet girl I never expected. She brought me to my knees with that beautiful smile. She made me laugh and slowly brought the old me back to life. I found myself wanting more with her.
I became her world, and she was my everything.
But when my past returns, my world is turned upside down.
I’m not sure I was prepared for what was about to happen.
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I remember when I read “Forgiving Reed” and we met Kori and her little boy, Rhett (who’s father had died, his name was Blake) and we also got to witness Reed, who may not be Rhett’s biological father, but is in all the other ways that matter the most, fall in love all over again with Kori and love Rhett as he was his own son 🙂
Well, now we get to read Rhett’s story and when I found out, I was squealing and jumping up and down, pumping my hands up in the air like a lunatic… I must admit that I probably looked like one since one of fur-babies tilted her head to the side and looked at me like I had finally lost my marbles, ha, ha 😉
Anyways, this means all the kids from the “Southern Boys Series”, meaning Reed, Gavin and Colt’s offspring will be getting their own stories, starting with Rhett, which is the second generation of these southern men ahem and the ladies too of course. Can’t wait to see Rhett’s sister, Grace get her own story because Rhett is so protective of her 😉
I’m so happy that we’ll get their stories because we get to see all of the previous couples from “The Southern Boys Series” again and how they’re now after so many years have passed, how united they all are still, especially now that their children are all grown-ups and have to go through challenges and obstacles and be lucky to have what they have and I’m glad that Rhett realized that Harley was his first love but AJ (Allison J) is his forever love <3
Rhett was hurt when his first girlfriend and first love left their small town. As the years passed after her departure and is informed by her that she's moved on and is currently seeing someone, of course he's hurt, and meanwhile during they're years separated, he's played the field, frequently and keeps Allison J aka AJ in the friend zone while she's in love with him and is understanding of his heartache and waits for her turn to be more for him and finally have a chance to be with him...
I got to be honest, AJ's character was great and I liked her determination, patience and devotion of her love for Rhett. I don't think I would be able to be friend zoned and see the guy I love with other girls... this one is strong and at the same time vulnerable; you'll see when you go ahead and read this book.
But, then something happens that opens Rhett's eyes to finally see what's always been in front of him (no spoiler) and what could potentially become... to love again.
Of course, Rhett's a guy, so it took him way too long to finally see the right girl for him, literally right in front of him but FINALLY HE DID! I was so happy 🙂
I was also happy when Rhett decided it was time to stake his claim on AJ and let every male know she was off limits; their friends and siblings had their hands in that. I loved how united all of them were, like Raven, who's AJ's older sister & Rhett and his sister, Grace. They both had strong bond with their siblings and I loved reading about that and witnessing it through the words 🙂 <3 They also had great friends who also dipped their hands to push Rhett & AJ to FINALLY get together 🙂
I liked that these two took things slow in the start of their relationship. AJ was still hesitant but willing to be with Rhett, even if she still thought that maybe she was a sort of replacement of Harley for Rhett, but slowly, Rhett shows her that she means something to him and that he's definitely over Harley.
Of course, there are some obstacles to overcome, some misunderstandings, some mistakes made along (don't worry guys, it's nothing too serious and remember, there's definitely no cheating in this book), and some unwelcome surprises that show up and try to mess things up for Rhett and AJ but guys, remember that these southern men and ahem, ladies too, don't give up easily, especially if that person is "the one for him/her" and when AJ's insecurities rear their head and make question herself and their relationship, Rhett's going to do everything in his power to vanquish those fears and soothe her insecurities by showing that his love for her is everlasting and completely different from what he felt for Harley, which was young teenage first love and that doesn't compete to what he feels now for AJ, his forever love <3 and along the way as he does this, they both get a beautiful and unexpected surprise along the way too 😉 <3
I loved the epilogue so much <3 It was beautiful, funny, emotional and most importantly, it was full of love and happiness with a united front of family and friends, there to see and surround with joy and love, Rhett, AJ and their newest addition to the Jackson family, Blake Reed <3
He was named after Rhett's two dads', his biological dad, Blake who died when Rhett's was very young to remember him but knows about him because Reed keeps his memory alive in his home. I loved that 🙂 Reed is such an amazing man for keeping the memory of Blake, who was Kori's first husband alive for Rhett and Kori, because let's be honest, not many men would actually do what he did. The bundle of joy's middle name is Reed because he's Rhett's dad, even if they don't share the same DNA. Reed taught Rhett everything he knows. Taught him how to be a man, was a great dad to him and treated him the same as his biological daughter with Kori, Grace and showed him everything he would need to know in life, including when the woman for you is there and you give it your all to get her. Their bond was beautiful to witness and the name that Rhett and AJ gave their baby boy to honor these two men, one up in heaven watching proudly over them and one who's been through everything with Rhett and supports him and loves him family unconditionally <3 It gave this story, at least to me, a heartwarming feeling while reading the epilogue 🙂
Rhett Jackson is finding it hard to forget. Allison “A.J.” Duncan wants to be sure before moving forward. Nothing in life is ever simple. Our author does a good job in giving the reader a glimpse into the life of two young people as they build a relationship. But one thing about relationships is that there are other forces at work that try to fight their way in. Is their love strong enough to weather any storm that may come their way?
This is a sweet story. This is a sexy story. Is this a first real love? Or is it the forever kind? We have young adults who also have to navigate the change in relationships with the “adults” in their lives. The author did a good job in showing how sometimes we can get frustrated with how things are happening and how they may affect a new relationship. By telling the story in the first person, we get more of a sense of what they’re thinking and feeling. It’s an emotional story but by the end you’ll be left with a smile on your face.
This is a spinoff of another of the author’s series titled Southern Boys. You certainly do not need to have read any of those books in order to enjoy this one. It may be an incentive to catch up or like me to start one of those books. But I’m also looking forward to seeing where Ms. Harms is going to take her readers as we get to know Brooklet.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Allure by C.A Harms is the first book in her Brooklet Dreams series. This is a spin-off of her Southern Boys series, which I have not read, however, did not feel lost.
Rhett thought he met the girl of his dreams when he was twelve. They made plans for their forever, but when she leaves, Rhett is heartbroken. He lives with hope that she will come back some day. Alison Jo, AJ, fell in love with Rhett when she met him, but knew his heart belonged to another. She became his friend and biggest supporter.
Rhett never gave up hope on his first true love, but when he realizes it may be time for him to move on, he finally sees AJ as more than a friend. She was the one person who was there for him and helped him move forward. He saw himself finally being happy and able to have a future, but what will change when his past comes back? When his heart is tested, will he fight for the woman he truly wants and love?
The feels in this one! Angsty, emotional and sexy read! I enjoyed reading Allure by C.A. Harms, even if there were times I was very frustrated, I was captivated by the story and the characters. Looking forward to more from this series and going back and reading the original series.
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading.
Allure by CA Harms. CA Harms is one of my favorite authors, and I absolutely love her writing. I was so excited to get to read Allure. Allure is a spin off from the Southern Boys Series, in which I absolutely loved the Southern Boys Series. I was attached to this story from start to finish, and loved the characters Rhett and AJ’S like crazy. Rhett was in love with a girl named Harley. But then one day she moves away while they are still in high school. Years go by, and he still hasn’t moved forward he is still in love with Harley, until one day he finally realizes she’s not coming back. Then he starts noticing a girl that’s been hanging around waiting for him to notice her named AJ. AJ was the quiet girl that Rhett never expected. She brought him to his knees with the beautiful smile she had. She made him laugh and slowly brought Rhett back to life again. AJ knew what she wanted, but isn’t sure that she will ever get it. But she keeps holding out, hoping that one day, he will see what is right there, waiting for him. This brand new series is going to be a hit I can tell! I loved everything about this book and will definitely recommend to others.
A story of letting go, healing and hope as you find a way to move on and find happiness again. Rhett is a great character and I couldn’t help but love everything about him. He’s grown into to an amazing man and I was happy to see him find his true perfect match. I loved the way everyone in the family sticks together and supports one another wholeheartedly. That same bond that we saw previously is alive and strong in Allure!
Rhett is everything and more.
Rhett’s story is everything I love about romance, and epitomises the written talents of CA Harms.
The first book of hers that I read was Forgiving Reed, and from there I was hooked. Now I’ve read Rhett’s story, who is Reed’s stepson, and the second generation of these gorgeous Southern men is looking to be just as loving and loyal in the most alpha of ways as their fathers were before them.
Rhett has had the best in role models from his step-father Reed, and he was totally broken when his first love, Harley, inseparable since they were 12, moved away with her family just before graduating high school. In starting college, he thought they would maintain their plans to attend the same one, only she didn’t, and it wasn’t until his last year in College, that he finally decided to notice the beautiful and energetic AJ, who had always seemed to be around.
On her part, AJ noticed Rhett the first time she’d seen him play baseball during their first year at college. What she did know, however, was that he was still not over the loss of his long-time girlfriend, and even though her attraction to him was unrelenting, she didn’t intend to be his rebound relationship.
What she didn’t know was, that Rhett had noticed her also, and in spending time with her, he realised just how much more there was to her than he’d ever realised. Just as Harley herself, realised how much she’d been missing Rhett, and came back to Brooklet to tell him.
I loved everything about this book. From the hurt that Rhett suffered in losing Harley as a teenager, through the self depreciating humour that the characters have, right to the intense chemistry between Rhett and AJ. The ‘feels’ are there at every stage. It was also great hearing from Reed, Gavin and Colt, our original book boyfriends, and seeing that they’re still as much in love with their women as ever. 5 Stars.
Great read! I really enjoyed it. I loved the story but from the blurb I thought there would be more about the ex coming back then there actually was. It is about letting your past go and moving on and the way the author told it was amazing. I loved the characters, especially Rhett. He’s sweet, loving, hot and sexy. I haven’t read the series that this spins off of and even though I’m going to go back and read them I didn’t feel left out of anything so you don’t have to read those first. I’m excited to see where this series goes after meeting all these great characters and the authors writing was wonderful.
Rhett has never forgotten his first love. More then 4 years later he’s still at a standstill. He’s not seeing what’s right in front of him. When he does give love another chance, his past comes back to threatens his future.
A quick read full of entertaining angst and drama. A great love story that will make the readers swoon. There was a time or two I wanted to throw my kindle at Rhett’s head. They were great together.
Standalone told in a dual POV with an HEA.
The crew from the Southern Boys series is back but with their kids all grown up. Up first is Rhett who is the son of Kori and Reed. I am beyond excited that we get to see the kids all grown up and living their lives. In the beginning we get a glimpse of Rhett when he gets his heartbroken by his first love. Then four years later he is still living with the heartache until he finds out his first love has really moved on. When he finally opens his eyes, he sees AJ in a new light. AJ is the girl that has been crushing on Rhett for years but knew he wasn’t over his ex-girlfriend, so she has been waiting for him to finally open his eyes. When Rhett sets his mind to something he is all in and after that first date with AJ he doesn’t let go. AJ is worried through the whole relationship about Rhett not being over his ex. That is a realistic worry, but she took it to the extreme where she might just risk her relationship. Rhett is all in right from the beginning and what is feels for AJ cannot be denied. Their chemistry is intense, and their relationship is filled with laughter and love.
When Rhett finally moves on with his life and finds something special with AJ, his ex comes back into the picture with intentions. This sets AJ insecurities into full blown overload and she takes things to the extreme. Her dramatics were overdone, and I do not like when characters take their drama to an unnecessary place. Other than that, I loved everything about the book. I did love the fact there was people in both characters corner. Rhett grew up to be a big time alpha and I love the fact that he fights for the people he cares about. I loved the next generation and cannot wait to read more about the other characters. This is tight knit group of friends and family and I love the way C.A. is bringing the new generation into the mix.
Rhett simetimes has to bring his girl back to focus, because she’s just easily distracted, “babe…” Rhett stood up and the blanket fell from his waist. Of course, what’s the first thing I did? I looked at the semi-erect ***k bobbing around proudly, and he chuckled. “Eyes up here, darlin’.” AJ sometimes wonders about her man, “what do ya say we go dish out some of this ice cream and watch the game with your dad?” AJ lowered her hands and her forehead wrinkled up as she looked back at me. “What?” I shrugged. “I like that guy. He’s laid back and cool.” I grabbed her hand and yanked her up.” I loved this book, I love seeing this generation and the original characters from the series and how they’re doing
This Story was AMAZING! I loved Rhett & AJ, they are perfect together. Sometimes you can find love and the love of your life where you least expect it. Rhett struggled with this for a while, but soon realized that all he needed or wanted was right in front of him.
You can see how vulnerable AJ throughout the story, not wanting to be second best. Rhett had a love before AJ that he originally thought would last a life time. Once Rhett realized what he wanted, he tried his best to make sure AJ knew she was the only one for him. AJ had insecurities from childhood, so it took her a bit of time to come around, but she realizes Rhett is the love of her life.
I know some people were possibly rooting for Harley & Rhett and were not fames of this type of story, but I loved it. It just shows that over time people grow, people change, people realize what they thought they wanted, wasn’t what they wanted at all. It is shown when Harley does return.
Things happen for a reason. Rhett and AJ belong together. I cannot wait for next book in this series!
4 out of 5 stars
This book is the first ina new series that is based on the children of one of my favorite series’ from CA Harms. Rhett and AJ start the series just right and I so can’t wait to read the rest — but Mikey definitely has a soft spot in my heart already!!!
Rhett is almost finished with college and on his way to starting his life – the only problem is that he’s hung up on his first love who left years ago and hasn’t looked back since. His friends convince him to give AJ a chance and it’s amazing the connection he feels with her.
AJ has watched Rhett from afar for years and dreamed of the chance to be with him, but she’s all too aware of his history and doesn’t want her heart broken, but takes the chance and goes out with him. Their connection is instant and their emotions are quick to feel everything for each other.
The fact that Rhett’s ex shows up wasn’t unexpected, but I’m not sure it played out quite how I expected and it felt a little rushed to be honest. BUT overall, I loved this story and the characters and think that Ms. Harms does a great job of bringing the story to life!
*** I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book that was unedited so my honest review does not account for editing errors ***
Absolutely loved the Southern Boys series and the second generation series Spin off, Brooklet Dreams is just as captivating. Rhett will steal your heart and have you swooning like no other character. He is full of heart and charisma just like his Dad Reed. After having his heart shattered by his first love, Rhett is stuck in the past and has trouble moving. However it will take a young woman with a huge heart by the name of AJ to show him that moving forward is sometimes worth the risk. Just when life and love seem to be taking the right path, Rhett’s past will come crashing back and throw things off kilter. Their story is one that will show you that our first loves pave the path for us, but our true love is the one that walks it with us no matter how smooth or rocky the ground. A truly beautiful love story that will capture your heart and soul.
I’ll be honest, I usually avoid the in/fresh-out-of college, new adulty kind of book. Most of the time I just can’t connect with the characters but Harms does a really good job here of giving readers people that they can like. Both AJ and Rhett are reasonable and appealing (no melodrama), they have good friends and loving families (with characters returning readers will love to see again), and a slow build romance that is down-to-earth and lifelike.
At first, I did have a little concern with how love AJ waited for Rhett to get over himself and move on with his life. However, I don’t think she sat around and pined. She was just very patient and I remember that feeling – circling around someone, waiting for them to notice you. Once he does, though, Rhett definitely steps up 🙂 It may have taken him a while (and a few smacks up to the side of his head from his friends) to decide to move on, but he’s definitely smart enough to recognize a good thing when it’s right in front of him.
(I have seen a few complaints about how Rhett handles some things but I didn’t mind it at all. I understood where he was coming from and what he was saying. I’m not sure if there was some confusion with the words the author used or maybe a little transference onto his character but I didn’t get the same vibe that some did.)
Those looking for some kinda over-the-top love triangle story won’t find it here. Instead, Allure is a sweet read about moving on and finding love again. I will admit that there was a little drag in a couple because there wasn’t a lot of drama to the story. To me it seemed that pages went by without a lot of character or plot development, so it was just about getting us to the end and the HEA catalyst. But Harms definitely knows how to bring that about. I really enjoyed the ending and how everything is wrapped up in a feel-good way.
**Review given honestly and freely after receipt of a review copy. This opinion is completely my own and was not influenced in any way.**
This is the first book in this new series by this absolutely brilliant Author and I’m already hooked and in love.
Soon as I started this book I totally loved Rhett. He was such a lovely, sweet young man when we first meet him. My heart broke along with his when he is left by Harley his first love. She has left behind a broken man who is struggling to let go. Fast forward 3 years and he still hasn’t moved on but the realisation that he needs to hits him full force and he finally opens his eyes to the girl that has been in front of him AJ.
Oh I loved AJ and Rhett together so much. The connection and chemistry was instant and so red hot I’m sure there was steam coming off my kindle a few times. She brings Rhett back to life and makes him realise that although Harley was his first love, AJ is his forever love and so much more.
This was such a beautiful, flawlessly written story. The characters were intriguing and engaging making me excited to see more of them in the future books.
If your looking for a book with hot sexy southern men, sexy sassy women, wit, humour, love, lust and an insane family that you just have to love instantly, then this is the book for you.