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Westbrooks: Family Ties #2
One Little Lie
She's the only one I'll ever love, but I had to let her go.
Rylan Maroney is the biggest lie I've ever told, and it nearly destroyed everyone in my life. No matter how much it hurts, I can never have her again.
He broke my heart and walked away, but he hasn't let me go.
Halton Westbrook has haunted my life from four thousand miles away for the last eight years. I've tried to move on, but he makes it impossible.
No one knows about us or why I ran away, but he's gone too far this time, and I have to take a stand.
When I return home, he'll have to decide, keep me, or let me go forever.
I'm not sure we'll survive either way.
What you need to know:
Small Town
Brother's Best Friend
All The Feels
Troubled Hero
Determined Heroine
Meddling Family & Friends Who Become Family
Rylan Maroney is the biggest lie I've ever told, and it nearly destroyed everyone in my life. No matter how much it hurts, I can never have her again.
He broke my heart and walked away, but he hasn't let me go.
Halton Westbrook has haunted my life from four thousand miles away for the last eight years. I've tried to move on, but he makes it impossible.
No one knows about us or why I ran away, but he's gone too far this time, and I have to take a stand.
When I return home, he'll have to decide, keep me, or let me go forever.
I'm not sure we'll survive either way.
What you need to know:
Small Town
Brother's Best Friend
All The Feels
Troubled Hero
Determined Heroine
Meddling Family & Friends Who Become Family
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2023
About the author
Avery Maxwell
16 books911 followersHi Luvs!
Avery Maxwell is an American contemporary romance novelist specializing in emotionally driven characters who bring love, chaos, heat, and a side of angst to every story she writes. She grew up in a tiny Vermont town with one flashing light and four stop signs. If you look closely enough, you can often find similarities between her small hometown and the stories she creates.
Avery now lives in North Carolina with her husband, four mini-humans, and two puppies. She fills her days with carpools and sporting events while using her nights to create stories that are impossible to put down.
When Avery isn’t on mom-duty or busy writing, you can find her at a concert or snuggling on the couch with a glass of wine and her very own Prince Charming.
We all have a book soulmate...have you found yours yet?
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Avery...
https://www.instagram.com/averymaxwel...
https://www.tiktok.com/@averymaxwell_...
Avery Maxwell is an American contemporary romance novelist specializing in emotionally driven characters who bring love, chaos, heat, and a side of angst to every story she writes. She grew up in a tiny Vermont town with one flashing light and four stop signs. If you look closely enough, you can often find similarities between her small hometown and the stories she creates.
Avery now lives in North Carolina with her husband, four mini-humans, and two puppies. She fills her days with carpools and sporting events while using her nights to create stories that are impossible to put down.
When Avery isn’t on mom-duty or busy writing, you can find her at a concert or snuggling on the couch with a glass of wine and her very own Prince Charming.
We all have a book soulmate...have you found yours yet?
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Avery...
https://www.instagram.com/averymaxwel...
https://www.tiktok.com/@averymaxwell_...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
November 29, 2021
I have been looking forward to Halston & Rylan’s story for months now, but unfortunately it didn’t work for me. Sometimes with this series, some of the stories are great and some not so much.
I know Author had some issues to deal with when she wrote Halston’s story and she admitted that she wasn’t in the right “head space” but unfortunately it showed.
While I enjoyed the other brother’s books because it had humor, suspense and likable characters, this one unfortunately fell flat because there was no suspense, no humor and not much to the plot. Basically Halston (aka Hatty) and Rylan grew up together. She was his Brother’s (Colton) BFF and they fell in love as teens, but his Father said something to him right before he died that he interprets wrong and sends him to break up with Rylan and go their separate ways for 8 or 10 years – all because he didn’t speak to Calton or Rylan about it to clear up any misunderstanding.
In that time, Ryland falls in love with OM and gets engaged. Halston has ONS (plural) because he has sacrificed his happiness for his brother as he thinks that Colton loved her first (which he didn’t. Only saw her as a friend) and he has to choose family first over anyone else – including the woman he loves. And that was strike 1 & 2 for me because everyone knows that I do not like when MCs move on to OP after they meet, and who wants a Hero who doesn’t chose heroine but his family? Ugh! No!
Then we have the immaturity of the characters that made me want to bash heads (theirs, not mine! Lol). Halston spent the entire book being pushed to go after Rylan. If it wasn’t coo-coo grandma, GG, then it was his brother’s or their wives. It got to the point that I wanted him to get some balls and man up already! There was also his constant blushing, stuttering and PTSD type fear of crowds which made him black out and faint. I mean, come on! Who wants a hero like that?
Then we have Rylan. She annoyed me to bits too! She was the aggressor here of always wanting to get in his pants, bringing up the OM and their life constantly, and then the selfishness of her act at the end when instead of choosing the man she supposedly said she loved, chose career. In essence doing the same think he did prior but in this case, she was totally selfish and looking out for herself.
Then we have the relationship of her & Halston’s brother Colton. For BFF’s, they were acting like stupid children in preschool and the constant touchy/feely actions was yet another sledgehammer to this story.
I don’t mean to be mean here. I like Avery Maxwell and that is a first for me because I don’t follow any Author and nor do I hold back when something is not written well. I know she had personal challenges to overcome when she was writing this book and I will give her a pass because in the most part, I liked her style of writing with Preston & Easton’s books and I am looking forward to Ash’s & somewhat Colton’s (though that insert at the end about Colton being a player & his immaturity/Peter Pan tendencies may have me skipping it.
I know Author had some issues to deal with when she wrote Halston’s story and she admitted that she wasn’t in the right “head space” but unfortunately it showed.
While I enjoyed the other brother’s books because it had humor, suspense and likable characters, this one unfortunately fell flat because there was no suspense, no humor and not much to the plot. Basically Halston (aka Hatty) and Rylan grew up together. She was his Brother’s (Colton) BFF and they fell in love as teens, but his Father said something to him right before he died that he interprets wrong and sends him to break up with Rylan and go their separate ways for 8 or 10 years – all because he didn’t speak to Calton or Rylan about it to clear up any misunderstanding.
In that time, Ryland falls in love with OM and gets engaged. Halston has ONS (plural) because he has sacrificed his happiness for his brother as he thinks that Colton loved her first (which he didn’t. Only saw her as a friend) and he has to choose family first over anyone else – including the woman he loves. And that was strike 1 & 2 for me because everyone knows that I do not like when MCs move on to OP after they meet, and who wants a Hero who doesn’t chose heroine but his family? Ugh! No!
Then we have the immaturity of the characters that made me want to bash heads (theirs, not mine! Lol). Halston spent the entire book being pushed to go after Rylan. If it wasn’t coo-coo grandma, GG, then it was his brother’s or their wives. It got to the point that I wanted him to get some balls and man up already! There was also his constant blushing, stuttering and PTSD type fear of crowds which made him black out and faint. I mean, come on! Who wants a hero like that?
Then we have Rylan. She annoyed me to bits too! She was the aggressor here of always wanting to get in his pants, bringing up the OM and their life constantly, and then the selfishness of her act at the end when instead of choosing the man she supposedly said she loved, chose career. In essence doing the same think he did prior but in this case, she was totally selfish and looking out for herself.
Then we have the relationship of her & Halston’s brother Colton. For BFF’s, they were acting like stupid children in preschool and the constant touchy/feely actions was yet another sledgehammer to this story.
I don’t mean to be mean here. I like Avery Maxwell and that is a first for me because I don’t follow any Author and nor do I hold back when something is not written well. I know she had personal challenges to overcome when she was writing this book and I will give her a pass because in the most part, I liked her style of writing with Preston & Easton’s books and I am looking forward to Ash’s & somewhat Colton’s (though that insert at the end about Colton being a player & his immaturity/Peter Pan tendencies may have me skipping it.
October 28, 2021
One Little Lie is definitely Avery Maxwell’s hottest book yet! Not only does the chemistry between Halton & Rylan ignite from the first chapter, but it builds within a deeply emotional story of love built, shattered, and refound. In addition to a fast paced, thoroughly developed plot, Maxwell employs intensely beautiful language to illustrate the intentions, obstructions, and ultimately the interventions that guide Hatty and Rylan to their fated HEA. The story builds as readers begin to understand the lengths one will go to in order to protect themselves and others. And while many questions about the Westbrooks and their extended family are answered, others are developed even more deeply, paving the road for the next books in the series. One Little Lie does a lot to test and fortify the bonds between the Westbrooks and their extended family, but once again their love for each other conquers all. That chaos the Westbrooks are famous for is the ultimate testament to loyalty, love, and lifelong happiness. I appreciate Maxwell’s measured and respectful approach to the mental health and anxiety elements of the story. While an integral part of the characters’ development, they are not stereotyped or glossed over as a weakness or an overly dramatic character flaw. Rather, what might be seen as character flaws are fundamental elements that create and build connections among the characters, as well as between the characters and the reader.
October 30, 2021
Halton and Rylan’s story nearly broke my heart. Tissues are definitely required while reading portions of this book. It has so much raw emotion, personal struggle and desperate need for a second chance. In previous books, Halton seemed to be overly critical, terse and distant. In this book we find out why he has become that way. Halton’s life has been centred on his need to protect Rylan and his family, his severe anxiety he tries desperately to control and the lingering guilt he carries about his father’s death. A decade ago Halton deliberately sent the only person who understood him, who saw his true self, running away from him. He broke both of their hearts and life has been a misery for both Halton and Rylan ever since then. Now, Rylan has returned and is determined to get answers from Halton (her Hatty) and hopefully some sort of closure. The chemistry between them is palpable and red hot, evident to all who see them together, even to Colton, his brother and Rylan’s best friend, who missed it years ago. As their reunion plays out, Halton’s family and Rylan finally learn of the burden he has been carrying, and his struggles with anxiety. This book does include a happily ever after, but the journey to get there is not an easy or simple one, but it is oh so captivating.
This book also features characters from the previous books by this author that readers have come to love and admire. The close knit Westbrook family is always wonderful to read about, as is the irreverent and rather spooky GG. It beautifully illustrates the importance of communication, of asking for and seeking out help, and the power of love. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and learn more about the Westbrooks and their extended family.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This book also features characters from the previous books by this author that readers have come to love and admire. The close knit Westbrook family is always wonderful to read about, as is the irreverent and rather spooky GG. It beautifully illustrates the importance of communication, of asking for and seeking out help, and the power of love. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and learn more about the Westbrooks and their extended family.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 29, 2021
I’ll warn you now. If you’ve ever felt inadequate, inept, alone, anxious, hopeless and helpless, Halton will break your heart. Heck, even if you haven’t, he’ll crack your heart in two. But that’s okay. Because while this is a love story wrapped in some mystery, misery, and regret, it’s also rolled in hope and the desire to find happiness.
Rylan and Halton danced around each other and were both so utterly stubborn about communicating that I wanted to slap each of them at some point. But Halton and his anguish over loving the one woman he thinks he can’t have had me wishing so hard for him to find his way. Rylan had her own confidence, but she also couldn’t be the anchor for someone else when that someone destroyed her once already. So it takes some truth wine, some interference, and a lot of “please listen to the women over the men” to save the day. And save it they did. Halton and his struggles to simply survive in this world really got to me, so I wanted to cheer when he got Rylan, cry when their failure to stop and talk things out broke them, and cheer again when Halton did some of the hardest things in his life to prove his love.
Get the tissues ready. Clear an afternoon. And get ready to feel every last bit of love, hope, misery, happiness, and determination in these two and their need to find their way back to what was always meant to be. This book is worth all of the emotions you’ll feel along the way, I promise.
Rylan and Halton danced around each other and were both so utterly stubborn about communicating that I wanted to slap each of them at some point. But Halton and his anguish over loving the one woman he thinks he can’t have had me wishing so hard for him to find his way. Rylan had her own confidence, but she also couldn’t be the anchor for someone else when that someone destroyed her once already. So it takes some truth wine, some interference, and a lot of “please listen to the women over the men” to save the day. And save it they did. Halton and his struggles to simply survive in this world really got to me, so I wanted to cheer when he got Rylan, cry when their failure to stop and talk things out broke them, and cheer again when Halton did some of the hardest things in his life to prove his love.
Get the tissues ready. Clear an afternoon. And get ready to feel every last bit of love, hope, misery, happiness, and determination in these two and their need to find their way back to what was always meant to be. This book is worth all of the emotions you’ll feel along the way, I promise.
October 29, 2021
This book is amazing! Not only is the book about Harry and Rylan finding each other and believing in each other and falling in love again, it is about how important communication is, with your friends and family. It is about remembering that no matter our struggles we are not alone.
This sums up so much of the story: Seeking help for a hurt that no one else can see isn’t weak, Halt. It takes strength and courage that some men will never have. Remember that the next time you feel ashamed of something you didn’t ask for. There are ways of handling this, but you have to take the first step. It takes more courage to fight for your mental health than it does to fight for a broken bone.
Avery Maxwell not only gives us an HEA between these two, but a wonderful message on loving yourself and how important mental health truly is.
This sums up so much of the story: Seeking help for a hurt that no one else can see isn’t weak, Halt. It takes strength and courage that some men will never have. Remember that the next time you feel ashamed of something you didn’t ask for. There are ways of handling this, but you have to take the first step. It takes more courage to fight for your mental health than it does to fight for a broken bone.
Avery Maxwell not only gives us an HEA between these two, but a wonderful message on loving yourself and how important mental health truly is.
October 29, 2021
Wow! I received this book as part of Avery’s ARC team. I had been counting down the days and it didn’t disappoint. I feel so connected to Hatty. Pushing people away as a defense mechanism? Check. Holding back because I don’t think I deserve it? Check. Panic attacks? Check. I also have a brand new vocabulary. I loved how Hatty and Rylan relationship began and how it built over time. I don’t want to give to much away but picking a word to describe a person and then finding it and discovering is awesome. Sigh. I think I cried three times because it hit close to home. This book is such a great read especially if you have an invisible disease like anxiety. It puts it all in perspective for us. Relating to characters in books is one of the things I love that Avery does for us. It doesn’t matter how much money the Westbrook’s have they all struggle with real life nuisance. That’s a reminder we all need. Be kind and don’t judge a book by it’s cover because you don’t know what someone else is going through on the inside. Go get this book!! You won’t be disappointed.
January 30, 2023
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I can't say this was my favorite from this series. I did enjoy it and I liked being able to get more answers to some of the secrets that surround this family but the romance felt a little meh to me. There just seemed to be nothing but misunderstandings between Hatty and Ryland and it became exhausting the longer the book went on without them communicating well. And I especially didn't like the whole third act breakup thing. I just felt like it was blown out of proportion and it bothered me that it became only Hatty's problem to solve and how he was the one everyone was pushing to make some grand gesture instead of Ryland.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I can't say this was my favorite from this series. I did enjoy it and I liked being able to get more answers to some of the secrets that surround this family but the romance felt a little meh to me. There just seemed to be nothing but misunderstandings between Hatty and Ryland and it became exhausting the longer the book went on without them communicating well. And I especially didn't like the whole third act breakup thing. I just felt like it was blown out of proportion and it bothered me that it became only Hatty's problem to solve and how he was the one everyone was pushing to make some grand gesture instead of Ryland.
November 5, 2021
OVERALL RATING –5 stars
RECOMMENDED FOR: those that like steam, family (made and chosen) interference, friends to lovers, slightly tortured character
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but connected to a series; there are characters from prior books. I highly recommend the books be read in order for the greatest enjoyment.
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me. I have read all the prior books in this series and have enjoyed them.
BOOK:
- Contemporary romance
- 1st person with dual POV
Other characters from the series:
-- other characters from the first books make appearances with slight involvement of a supporting nature
-- main characters’ story concluded
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
· Writing Quality: 5 stars
· Story ingredient: 5 stars
· Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars
· Plot strength: 5 stars
· Steam Level: 5 stars - open door graphic scenes
Notes/Opinion (personal):
Misunderstandings and an inability to see the forest for the trees seem to plague the Westbrook boys…
Halton has been a presence in her life since childhood. Rylan was best friends with Halton’s younger brother, putting her in the same circles with Halton; but misunderstandings and personal insecurity kept him distant from her.
Except that one time.
When they crossed that line.
He pushed her away.
She tried to move on... Tried being the key word.
Now she’s back and demanding answers and won’t leave until she has them.
It’s time for him to come clean…
This is my 7th go round with Avery’s books –yes, I’ve read them all. I’ve enjoyed all of them. I have seen growth in her writing and love these stories. I’d like to live in this world. This book slightly different in that I see more emotion coming out with this character. Those that follow Avery know she had some challenges while writing this book and she stated it influenced her writing. Although none of us wish the challenges she experienced on anyone, it certainly worked for her favor and it shows. If you have not experienced the Broken Hearts and Westbrooks – grab a comfy seat, beverage of choice and get started with Cross My Heart.
RECOMMENDED FOR: those that like steam, family (made and chosen) interference, friends to lovers, slightly tortured character
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but connected to a series; there are characters from prior books. I highly recommend the books be read in order for the greatest enjoyment.
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me. I have read all the prior books in this series and have enjoyed them.
BOOK:
- Contemporary romance
- 1st person with dual POV
Other characters from the series:
-- other characters from the first books make appearances with slight involvement of a supporting nature
-- main characters’ story concluded
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
· Writing Quality: 5 stars
· Story ingredient: 5 stars
· Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars
· Plot strength: 5 stars
· Steam Level: 5 stars - open door graphic scenes
Notes/Opinion (personal):
Misunderstandings and an inability to see the forest for the trees seem to plague the Westbrook boys…
Halton has been a presence in her life since childhood. Rylan was best friends with Halton’s younger brother, putting her in the same circles with Halton; but misunderstandings and personal insecurity kept him distant from her.
Except that one time.
When they crossed that line.
He pushed her away.
She tried to move on... Tried being the key word.
Now she’s back and demanding answers and won’t leave until she has them.
It’s time for him to come clean…
This is my 7th go round with Avery’s books –yes, I’ve read them all. I’ve enjoyed all of them. I have seen growth in her writing and love these stories. I’d like to live in this world. This book slightly different in that I see more emotion coming out with this character. Those that follow Avery know she had some challenges while writing this book and she stated it influenced her writing. Although none of us wish the challenges she experienced on anyone, it certainly worked for her favor and it shows. If you have not experienced the Broken Hearts and Westbrooks – grab a comfy seat, beverage of choice and get started with Cross My Heart.
October 31, 2021
Halton and Rylan story is a brother’s best friend/second chance romance. Halton and Rylan grew up together and were around each other a lot. Rylan ended up becoming best friends with Colton(Halton’s brother). Halton has been in love with Rylan forever but one little lie from their past destroys their relationship. So when they see each other years later let’s just say they are about to take a ride on the emotional rollercoaster.
This book was well written and Avery did a great job writing about mental health challenges. Some of the issues that got brought up are social anxiety and worthiness. While this book does touch on those important issues it also has funny moments between Halton and his family and Halton and Rylan. It also has some pretty steamy scenes between Halton and Rylan.
Just like in Avery’s other books family is the key. That regardless of what happens family will always be there.
This book was well written and Avery did a great job writing about mental health challenges. Some of the issues that got brought up are social anxiety and worthiness. While this book does touch on those important issues it also has funny moments between Halton and his family and Halton and Rylan. It also has some pretty steamy scenes between Halton and Rylan.
Just like in Avery’s other books family is the key. That regardless of what happens family will always be there.
October 31, 2021
This book was a real emotional rollercoaster, with little lies leading to years of pain.
Rylan and Halton really put us through the emotional ringer in this book through trying to protect each other they nearly loose what they are. Haltons anxiety also really resonated with me because of my own similar issues and how he feels like an outsider in his family aswell.
This was an amazing story that felt different from the others as you got a true struggle here within the characters that many including myself can relate to before you get the HEA.
Another great Westbrook read and I cannot wait for the next one.
Rylan and Halton really put us through the emotional ringer in this book through trying to protect each other they nearly loose what they are. Haltons anxiety also really resonated with me because of my own similar issues and how he feels like an outsider in his family aswell.
This was an amazing story that felt different from the others as you got a true struggle here within the characters that many including myself can relate to before you get the HEA.
Another great Westbrook read and I cannot wait for the next one.
October 30, 2021
Deeply Moving
One Little Lie by Avery Maxwell is the second in The Westbrooks: Family Ties series. It expands the world created in The Westbrooks: Broken Hearts novels. Each book in this series offers the main couple’s complete story. However, character development and an intriguing suspense subplot interweave throughout the entire series, so I recommend reading them in order for the best experience.
That said, this is Maxwell’s 7th book in The Westbrook franchise, each stronger, deeper, and steamier than the last. Maxwell hasn’t shied away from challenging topics in the preceding novels, handling them with kindness and compassion. One Little Lie continues that dedication to creating authentic characters with real-world problems that resonate with readers.
In One Little Lie, Brother’s best friend meets Second chance love with a hint of Forced proximity and a healthy dose of Maxwell’s signature Sassy Small-Town Steam combine to make One Little Lie a winner of a read for me. The ongoing theme of Chosen Family is ever present, as is the wisdom and snark of our beloved GG.
Rylan is Colton’s (Halton’s younger brother) Best Friend. Halton loves Rylan. When one little lie that seemed necessary at the time blows their teenage romance apart, Rylan moves away. When she comes back years later, Halton must decide to let her go or fix his shit.
Halton lives with social anxiety, and like many of us, deals with worthiness issues. His journey toward wellness and a shared happily ever after is profoundly moving, raw and authentic, and opens the door for serious conversations about the stigmas of mental health challenges. I applaud Maxwell’s bravery for taking on this timely and much-needed dialogue.
I fell in love with The Westbrooks a year ago, with Cross MY Heart, and I wholeheartedly recommend both The Westbrooks series and One Little Lie.
One Little Lie by Avery Maxwell is the second in The Westbrooks: Family Ties series. It expands the world created in The Westbrooks: Broken Hearts novels. Each book in this series offers the main couple’s complete story. However, character development and an intriguing suspense subplot interweave throughout the entire series, so I recommend reading them in order for the best experience.
That said, this is Maxwell’s 7th book in The Westbrook franchise, each stronger, deeper, and steamier than the last. Maxwell hasn’t shied away from challenging topics in the preceding novels, handling them with kindness and compassion. One Little Lie continues that dedication to creating authentic characters with real-world problems that resonate with readers.
In One Little Lie, Brother’s best friend meets Second chance love with a hint of Forced proximity and a healthy dose of Maxwell’s signature Sassy Small-Town Steam combine to make One Little Lie a winner of a read for me. The ongoing theme of Chosen Family is ever present, as is the wisdom and snark of our beloved GG.
Rylan is Colton’s (Halton’s younger brother) Best Friend. Halton loves Rylan. When one little lie that seemed necessary at the time blows their teenage romance apart, Rylan moves away. When she comes back years later, Halton must decide to let her go or fix his shit.
Halton lives with social anxiety, and like many of us, deals with worthiness issues. His journey toward wellness and a shared happily ever after is profoundly moving, raw and authentic, and opens the door for serious conversations about the stigmas of mental health challenges. I applaud Maxwell’s bravery for taking on this timely and much-needed dialogue.
I fell in love with The Westbrooks a year ago, with Cross MY Heart, and I wholeheartedly recommend both The Westbrooks series and One Little Lie.
October 30, 2021
The Westbrooks are an amazing family, by blood or by choice. This time it's Halton's turn, Hatty, he has been showing in the previous books that he is far from everyone being a little grumpy. His story is still spectacular. One Little Lie shows us how a lie leads us to a life of sadness and desolation. Halton is an example of how many of us can feel in our life and with our family. Rylan, Verity, is really the perfect person for Halton. She’s an wonderful heroine. When she decided to go for what she really wants, it’s satisfying to see her face Halton. Together they form a total that both need to move forward with their future. Two pieces of the puzzle. GG obvious always brings laughter while I read, that Truth Wine is really dangerous 😂
***the ocean, the kitchen,the closet, be sure you read those scenes***
Seeing Dexter again always makes me happy!!! Dex is still my Prince Charming. Always willing to help everyone get their HEA.
The epilogue and the extended epilogue are spectacular, you can't stop reading them. Ashton and Sadie stole my heart.
Avery gives us the first chapter of One Little Kiss, Colton promises us an interesting story, I am very excited about spring 2022
***the ocean, the kitchen,the closet, be sure you read those scenes***
Seeing Dexter again always makes me happy!!! Dex is still my Prince Charming. Always willing to help everyone get their HEA.
The epilogue and the extended epilogue are spectacular, you can't stop reading them. Ashton and Sadie stole my heart.
Avery gives us the first chapter of One Little Kiss, Colton promises us an interesting story, I am very excited about spring 2022
October 30, 2021
With each book by Avery Maxwell we dive deeper into the Westbrook family and their chaos. I connected a lot with this book because Halton is a unique character, not only is he part of this high profile family and CFO of their company, but he suffers from anxiety and he keeps it to himself. He feels like he doesn't fit in. it's kind of how I feel in life, so to read about someone like me, was really a unique experience. The love this family has for one another is so huge, but they all want to be the hero and save every one else, it's their biggest strength and weakness all in one. Rylan is is Halton's brother, Colton's best friend since child hood and he always though Colton was meant to be hers, it's a unique twist on a love triangle, Halton & Rylan in love with each other, but Rylan and Colton's love like siblings for each other. This story is so beautiful it will crack your soul a bit, but make no mistake, with her beautiful words, Avery will make sure you are put back together before you see the words The End!
October 30, 2021
“Our life is made up of moments in time. Some moments we capture. Some moments we royally screw up, and some moments bring you right where you were always meant to be.”
I love this book! Avery Maxwell writes the best, most relatable characters. I love way the book touches on mental health, because so many people struggle with anxiety and depression issues and feel the need to hide. I think the author handles these touchy subjects perfectly and it’s inspirational and uplifting for anyone who has struggled with anxiety. I love Hatty and Rylan, ALL of the Westbrook’s, of course GG, but the real star here is little Sadie Sunshine! I’m hooked on the Westbrook’s and can’t wait to see how the series unfolds!
Also, because I don’t think I’ve written a review for Avery Maxwell without saying this, even though I know she’s going to make me wait, I NEED ALL THE ASHTON!!
I love this book! Avery Maxwell writes the best, most relatable characters. I love way the book touches on mental health, because so many people struggle with anxiety and depression issues and feel the need to hide. I think the author handles these touchy subjects perfectly and it’s inspirational and uplifting for anyone who has struggled with anxiety. I love Hatty and Rylan, ALL of the Westbrook’s, of course GG, but the real star here is little Sadie Sunshine! I’m hooked on the Westbrook’s and can’t wait to see how the series unfolds!
Also, because I don’t think I’ve written a review for Avery Maxwell without saying this, even though I know she’s going to make me wait, I NEED ALL THE ASHTON!!
November 5, 2021
Another book of Avery's that has all the feels....I laughed, I cried and everything in between. Hattie and Rylan's story had me invested from the very first word. This whole family has me hooked and I can't wait to read the next story...thank you Avery....I love this world you have created for us xx
November 8, 2021
"Give me a word, Hatty"
Goddamn. That's my word, and if holy shit were one word that could be it too.
Let's just start with the kitchen, the baking, the flour...that scene...supreme hottness. Baking may never be the same again!
Halton and Rylan are hot. When they get together watch out but this book was so much more than the sex. Every book in this series has had so much story, so much emotion, so much family. I love how every book is about a specific couple but all the family, the characters, the scenes, the settings are all part of the same larger story. I just can't get enough, fast enough.
Halton has always been the quiet grump. Standing in the shadows of all his brothers with a misguided sense of loyalty, and we finally know why.
"It's not about what I want, Rylan. I've always wanted you. I can't have you. You're not mine to keep."
Rylan is his brothers best friend, they have been close since they were kids, but a series of unfortunate incidents has separated them for years.
"I think my heart's loved him since I was six years old. I tried to move on, but my heart has always belonged to him. Is that messed up?"
I am a sucker for the couple that fell in love when they were kids. Six years old and they knew. He saw her tears and wanted to save and help and protect her even then. Gah!!! And that alpha protective streak doesn't dim.
"I'm on my third beer, and I've already committed seven murders in my head."
Well, their story is not easy. But it's real and honest and gritty and steamy. They have undeniable chemistry with the heart to back it up.
"Our life is made up of moments in time. Some moments we capture. Some moments we royally screw up, and some moments bring you right where you were always meant to be."
Read this whole series. I suggest starting at the beginning because all the stories are interconnected.
"Welcome to the chaos."
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November 4, 2021
“One Little Lie” is the second book in the Westbrook series and it tells the story of Halton and Rylan. Each book “could” be read as a stand-alone but I wouldn’t recommend it only because the previous books are all so fantastic and lead up to this wonderful story! The author’s Broken Hearts series is where it all begins and all of the characters are developed and weaved into the stories from the beginning. Believe me, you won’t be disappointed if you start with Book 1 from the Broken Hearts series and binge your way through to this wonderful second chance/forced proximity trope in “One Little Lie”.
Halton has been in love with Rylan since he found her crying in the coat closet in elementary school when she was six. Their friendship grew into a love so strong that even the lies that have been told and the years apart cannot break the bonds of love that these two have for each other. My heart bled for Halton (Hatty) throughout the book. Maxwell created such a real character when she wrote Hatty, who deals with social anxiety, panic attacks, and feelings of not belonging and not being worthy enough. Her description and creation of the character, Hatty, is so real, raw and emotional that it really gets you thinking about the issue of mental health. This one really hits home for me and I applaud Avery for taking on the subject of mental health.
However, with all the heavy out of the way, there is plenty of heat (like drop your kindle ..hot, Hot, HOT! #ocean #kitchen #closet), love, family, friendships, suspense, laughter, and everything else that I’ve come to love about this author!
Hatty & Rylan are magical together. She truly grounds and calms him and Hatty is Rylan's missing piece, together they are whole!
In a nutshell, this book truly had it all…please go read Hatty and Rylan’s love story, you won’t be disappointed!
Halton has been in love with Rylan since he found her crying in the coat closet in elementary school when she was six. Their friendship grew into a love so strong that even the lies that have been told and the years apart cannot break the bonds of love that these two have for each other. My heart bled for Halton (Hatty) throughout the book. Maxwell created such a real character when she wrote Hatty, who deals with social anxiety, panic attacks, and feelings of not belonging and not being worthy enough. Her description and creation of the character, Hatty, is so real, raw and emotional that it really gets you thinking about the issue of mental health. This one really hits home for me and I applaud Avery for taking on the subject of mental health.
However, with all the heavy out of the way, there is plenty of heat (like drop your kindle ..hot, Hot, HOT! #ocean #kitchen #closet), love, family, friendships, suspense, laughter, and everything else that I’ve come to love about this author!
Hatty & Rylan are magical together. She truly grounds and calms him and Hatty is Rylan's missing piece, together they are whole!
In a nutshell, this book truly had it all…please go read Hatty and Rylan’s love story, you won’t be disappointed!
November 1, 2021
There is so much to love in this book. I felt like it went from 0 to 100 from the first chapter. Halton & Rylan’s journey is epic. From childhood friends who probably don’t understand their connection to adults who know they are soulmates but can’t quite get it together. Lack of communication, feelings of inadequacy and misunderstandings have had them separated for 10 years.
Rylan comes crashing back into Halton’s world and as with all the Westbrook men their secrets become the crux of their issues and Halton has been harbouring several that start to unravel. The author incorporates feelings of anxiety into Halton’s character and it is treated with honesty and respect. It made his character so much more special.
I really enjoyed Rylan and her confidence and spirit. I also loved the flashback scenes to their childhood and learning how they bonded over their love of art.
The way these two spark is off the charts and they have to work really hard to make it work. But the payoff is worth it. You’ll never think of a commercial kitchen in the same way after this story!
Avery Maxwell has mastered world building and whilst this is a stand alone romance story it is better appreciated if you read the preceding books. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
Rylan comes crashing back into Halton’s world and as with all the Westbrook men their secrets become the crux of their issues and Halton has been harbouring several that start to unravel. The author incorporates feelings of anxiety into Halton’s character and it is treated with honesty and respect. It made his character so much more special.
I really enjoyed Rylan and her confidence and spirit. I also loved the flashback scenes to their childhood and learning how they bonded over their love of art.
The way these two spark is off the charts and they have to work really hard to make it work. But the payoff is worth it. You’ll never think of a commercial kitchen in the same way after this story!
Avery Maxwell has mastered world building and whilst this is a stand alone romance story it is better appreciated if you read the preceding books. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
November 1, 2021
This is my favorite Avery Maxwell book so far. The chemistry these two share on the pages is hot and have some steamy scenes.
Halton and Ryand have loved each other all their lives, but Ryland is Colton’s (Halton’s brother) best friend. In a misguided effort to protect both his family Halton tells one little lie that tears Ryland and him apart. Ryland runs from the pain of Hatty's lie by moving to another country. Her relationship ends and she needs to get answers from Hatty before she can let go and move on. Halton is haunted by the lie he told but can't bring himself to explain it to Ryland. Halton is not only dealing with the lie he told but with anxiety that he tries so hard to keep anyone for seeing. All the Westbrook’s step up and get a little sneaky to help Halton and Ryland find their happiness.
There is an underlying mystery running through these books, and although The Westbrook series can be read alone this really begins in the Broken Hearts series.
October 31, 2021
Another great book by Avery Maxwell. One Little Lie follows on with the Westbrook family. This book focuses on Halton and Rylan. Halton, has never felt like he fits in his family-he hates attention and social occasions. Although Rylan and his brother, Colton, have always been best friends, Halton and Rylan developed a different friendship at a young age that led to young love. However, due to a misunderstanding with his father, Halton feels he has to let Rylan go and let his brother have her.
After years of being separated Halton and Rylan are thrown together again and Halt has to work out whether he can overcome his anxiety and ghosts from his past to actually be with the woman he loves and Rylan has to decide whether she risks her heart with him again.
Really touching characters and you feel for Halton so much as he struggles to overcome his barriers.
After years of being separated Halton and Rylan are thrown together again and Halt has to work out whether he can overcome his anxiety and ghosts from his past to actually be with the woman he loves and Rylan has to decide whether she risks her heart with him again.
Really touching characters and you feel for Halton so much as he struggles to overcome his barriers.
November 1, 2021
WARNING: Kleenex and a full bottle of wine are needed while reading this book. I do not think I can adequately describe how heart wrenching this book was. From the very beginning to the very last chapter the reader is taken on an emotional journey that was completely devastating. The build up, tear down, moments that shatter and then moments that destroy were like watching a car accident happen - you don't want to watch but you cannot look away. Halton and Rylan are soulmates that due to circumstances beyond their control are never allowed to be together. It is once their hearts are open, their minds are quieted and those that they have in their lives put it all together that their happiness outweighs the bad. I could not put this book down and Avery Maxwell has now become one of my go to authors to read and re-read again and again.
October 30, 2021
My emotions were everywhere, and I felt Halton's pain and love for Rylan when he lied to her as a teenager. This book is about understanding, love, forgiveness, and all the feelings a person can have.
We get more of an understanding of Halton and what he deals with, his family see's the change in him from when their father died. He hides it that he thinks it's his fault his dad died, and that has changed him in a way that he thinks is his punishment for hurting his family and the girl he loves. When Rylan comes home they both have to confront the past and make a choice to give love a second chance.
Avery Maxwell knows how to write a book that draws you into story and you do not want the story to end. This is a must read book!
We get more of an understanding of Halton and what he deals with, his family see's the change in him from when their father died. He hides it that he thinks it's his fault his dad died, and that has changed him in a way that he thinks is his punishment for hurting his family and the girl he loves. When Rylan comes home they both have to confront the past and make a choice to give love a second chance.
Avery Maxwell knows how to write a book that draws you into story and you do not want the story to end. This is a must read book!
November 1, 2021
Avery Maxwell always delivers in the feels department. Your stomach will be in knots one moment and then the next it is tingly with butterflies. Let me tell you this book was S-T-E-A-M-Y! There needs to be a warning label: NSFW! I may have taken some cold showers. I loved Halton aka Hatty and Rylan. I wanted to choke them a lot throughout the book because communication and secrets were so much of their problem! Hell, it is all of the Westbrooks’ problem. One thing I love about this book, the entire series really, is that each one loves with their whole heart. They are loving, giving and forgiving. We could all learn so much from this family.
Way to go Avery, your luv shines bright!
Way to go Avery, your luv shines bright!
October 31, 2021
"Sempiternal"
Loved the words throughout this book. This was the most emotional one so far, and that's saying something. Ms. Maxwell is an expert and brining out feelings from the page out into the real world. Communication is key in all relationships, it has to be. To think what could have been avoided if they had just talked. Loved Sadie Sunshine, Lexi and the she-pack, bad timings a few times, pig snouts, missing links, "best ending ever". It's hard living your best life, but you have to at least give it a shot. Loved this chapter and can't wait for the next one. Welcome to the Chaos.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
Loved the words throughout this book. This was the most emotional one so far, and that's saying something. Ms. Maxwell is an expert and brining out feelings from the page out into the real world. Communication is key in all relationships, it has to be. To think what could have been avoided if they had just talked. Loved Sadie Sunshine, Lexi and the she-pack, bad timings a few times, pig snouts, missing links, "best ending ever". It's hard living your best life, but you have to at least give it a shot. Loved this chapter and can't wait for the next one. Welcome to the Chaos.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
October 30, 2021
My heart was torn for Halton & Hatty and at times wondered if they would even have a HEA. There is just some hard & raw emotional times throughout the story that you will need tissues when reading. Communication is key to any relationship as is honesty & both didn't communicate with the other as well as they should have. The story built up throughout and I loved both the character & plot development. I do think that with some story lines in the book you should read the series in order.
October 31, 2021
Omg!!! I’m crying!! But I always cry at Avery books. She had a gift for writing. Thank you for this epic book.
Everyone has demons, everyone needs love. Rylan and Halton truly are soulmates. But even soulmates takes work and communication. Hatty has lied to Rylan to keep her away. Because he thinks it best. Brother code and all. But all that time to find he was wrong. Can he fix it before it’s to late?
Everyone has demons, everyone needs love. Rylan and Halton truly are soulmates. But even soulmates takes work and communication. Hatty has lied to Rylan to keep her away. Because he thinks it best. Brother code and all. But all that time to find he was wrong. Can he fix it before it’s to late?
October 31, 2021
5*
This book totally drew me in it dealt with many issues that are often not spoken about or shared.
Rylan has been part of the Westbrook family since meeting Halton her Hatty & Colton.
Halton has needed Rylan his Verity to calm him only she see's him and has always been his anchor.
Communication isn't known in this family and lack of communication and misunderstanding strikes again.
This book totally drew me in it dealt with many issues that are often not spoken about or shared.
Rylan has been part of the Westbrook family since meeting Halton her Hatty & Colton.
Halton has needed Rylan his Verity to calm him only she see's him and has always been his anchor.
Communication isn't known in this family and lack of communication and misunderstanding strikes again.
November 1, 2021
Chaos has landed in the world of Rylan and Halton. Yet another grumpy Westbrook who can’t find his way out of a paper bag. At least until his childhood love reappears. Ry and Hatty are will make you hate ‘em and love ‘em! They are a good reminder that communication in a relationship is important!!! I can’t wait to read the next Avery Maxwell novel!!!!
November 4, 2021
I was so excited for this book because I was completely intrigued by Halton Westbrook after reading One Little Mistake. He was grumpy, broody but that didn't stop him from taking care of those he loved. He'd do anything to be there for his family but there was an aura of pain around him and I couldn't wait to see what makes him tick or just give the poor guy a hug. It just seemed like he needed it.
When Rylan, his little brother's best friend returns from London it's clear that she's the one that has him wound up so tight that he can't see what's right in front of him. The decisions he made so long ago fester inside him and threaten any chance he has at being loved the way he so deserves.
This one is an emotional read that I think would resonate with any reader. Halton is so authentic in the way he deals with what he feels are his shortcomings. He has anxiety and guilt but tries to keep it all inside. The desire to take care of those you love can be a double edged sword and one that Halton selflessly and needlessly threw himself on. He's been living with the pain of it for almost a decade. His own relationship with Rylan grew from being childhood friends who offered protection and solace to so much more as they became teenagers.
Now Rylan's back and she doesn't need Halton's protection anymore as much as she needs him to set her free, to move on from their teenaged heartbreak that drove her all the way to London. Their interactions are so raw and full of pain as they find their truth and love again. One thing that hadn't changed is their chemistry and WOW did Avery do an amazing job about that. Explosive, creative and powerful. The pull between Rylan and Halton is unstoppable and had me hanging on every word.
Is it weird to feel comfort when I read the words "Welcome to the chaos?" If you love chosen family themes then this series is a MUST READ. The Westbrooks are crazy wealthy with huge hearts and the deepest loyalty to their loved ones. Who wouldn't want to be a part of this family? Don't hesitate and take a running jump into the chaos that is the Westbrook family series!
I was kindly given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When Rylan, his little brother's best friend returns from London it's clear that she's the one that has him wound up so tight that he can't see what's right in front of him. The decisions he made so long ago fester inside him and threaten any chance he has at being loved the way he so deserves.
This one is an emotional read that I think would resonate with any reader. Halton is so authentic in the way he deals with what he feels are his shortcomings. He has anxiety and guilt but tries to keep it all inside. The desire to take care of those you love can be a double edged sword and one that Halton selflessly and needlessly threw himself on. He's been living with the pain of it for almost a decade. His own relationship with Rylan grew from being childhood friends who offered protection and solace to so much more as they became teenagers.
Now Rylan's back and she doesn't need Halton's protection anymore as much as she needs him to set her free, to move on from their teenaged heartbreak that drove her all the way to London. Their interactions are so raw and full of pain as they find their truth and love again. One thing that hadn't changed is their chemistry and WOW did Avery do an amazing job about that. Explosive, creative and powerful. The pull between Rylan and Halton is unstoppable and had me hanging on every word.
Is it weird to feel comfort when I read the words "Welcome to the chaos?" If you love chosen family themes then this series is a MUST READ. The Westbrooks are crazy wealthy with huge hearts and the deepest loyalty to their loved ones. Who wouldn't want to be a part of this family? Don't hesitate and take a running jump into the chaos that is the Westbrook family series!
I was kindly given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2021
4.5⭐️
It’s only ever been you in my dreams, Rylan. That’s the only place I can have you.
Halton and Rylan’s story just about wrecked me. I loved Rylan and Hatty's story so much. They were so perfect.
It’s hard to pretend you’re happily part of the chaos when you’re always on the outside looking in. I don’t fit.
Their characters were complex with their own issues, you can't help but relate to the flaws, especially Hatty's. His heartache and guilt he struggled with made me just want to hug him. And though I felt frustrated with him, why he is so stubborn, I can finally understand him. This is probably the heaviest story I've read from both of the series.
You’re the other piece of me. A love so rare no one else could fit. We’re like a puzzle that only has two pieces.
As always, I loved the Westbrook family. I love the way they are always there for one another. I admired Rylan’s friendship with Colton though it caused misunderstanding that led to heartbreak. Though I said this is the heaviest and emotional story in the series, I'm pretty sure Ashton's story is going to wreck me again. And I can't wait for it. Also Colton! Man, safe to say, I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
It’s only ever been you in my dreams, Rylan. That’s the only place I can have you.
Halton and Rylan’s story just about wrecked me. I loved Rylan and Hatty's story so much. They were so perfect.
It’s hard to pretend you’re happily part of the chaos when you’re always on the outside looking in. I don’t fit.
Their characters were complex with their own issues, you can't help but relate to the flaws, especially Hatty's. His heartache and guilt he struggled with made me just want to hug him. And though I felt frustrated with him, why he is so stubborn, I can finally understand him. This is probably the heaviest story I've read from both of the series.
You’re the other piece of me. A love so rare no one else could fit. We’re like a puzzle that only has two pieces.
As always, I loved the Westbrook family. I love the way they are always there for one another. I admired Rylan’s friendship with Colton though it caused misunderstanding that led to heartbreak. Though I said this is the heaviest and emotional story in the series, I'm pretty sure Ashton's story is going to wreck me again. And I can't wait for it. Also Colton! Man, safe to say, I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
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