“It Should Have Been Us” by Anna B. Doe

"It Should Have Been Us" marks the debut of Anna B. Doe's new series, Bluebonnet Creek, focusing on the story of Becky and Miguel, who first made their appearance in "Kiss Me First."

Tropes:

✨Small-town romance

✨Sports Romance 🏈

✨Childhood friends to lovers

✨Forced Proximity

✨Second Chance

✨It always have been you

4.5 ⭐️

2 🌶️

TW: Alzheimer’s disease, loss of a parent, miscarriage

Becky and Miguel, once high school sweethearts, broke up at the age of 19. Miguel's passion for football led him to a scholarship at Michigan, while Becky, devoted to her family, couldn't join him. A misunderstanding led to their relationship's demise, and three years later, they find themselves back in Bluebonnet Creek for their friends' wedding. The quaint small-town backdrop adds a layer of complexity, making it challenging to avoid each other, especially when their undeniable attraction and lingering love resurface.

Becky's steadfast dedication to her family, particularly her mother battling early-onset Alzheimer's, anchors her in the tight-knit community of Bluebonnet Creek. As she manages her café, her resilience becomes evident. Enter Miguel, now an NFL player, that will do everything in his power to talk to her. Despite Becky's initial attempts to keep her distance, a single kiss reignites their connection, unraveling buried secrets and unspoken emotions.

The narrative bravely explores profound themes like Alzheimer's, parental loss, and miscarriage, weaving a poignant tapestry of small-town romance. While the slow-burn nature might not be everyone's cup of tea, the well-crafted spicy scenes seamlessly contribute to the overarching plot.

Becky's prolonged miscommunication may test your patience, yet her eventual pursuit of happiness brings redemption to her character. Miguel's personal struggles, encompassing strained family dynamics and his focus on football, enrich the narrative, adding layers of depth.

Though the small-town romance genre often involves brevity, the book's length and occasional miscommunications may challenge those seeking a quicker read. Despite these nuances, the story offers a compelling second-chance romance, particularly for readers who appreciate a slower pace. The well-crafted spicy scenes showcase Miguel's character, combining sweetness and intensity. If you're a fan of small-town, second-chance romances, this book is worth a try.

For fans of small-town, second-chance romances, this book beckons exploration. My journey through its pages was enjoyable, and I'm eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Bluebonnet Creek series. Heartfelt thanks to Anna B. Doe for the early copy, exchanged for my honest opinion. 📚💖