Tropes

Savannah "Shortcake" Abbot

I love her resilience. This girl is Hayes's perfect match; their dynamic is just fun to witness. My heart broke for her, thinking her best friend abandoned her when she needed him most. But there was so much more to the story. I'm glad they cleared the air out. 

"She was always a bright light, even when sht was raining down on her."

"Some people were glass-half-full people. Othes half empty. Savannah Abbot's glass had always been overflowing." - Hayes describing Savannah

Tenor

Precious Friendship

Imagine not speaking to your best friend for a decade, both of you having issues with each other because of miscommunication, and then finding each other and getting married. What?! 

But the solid foundation they've had, like peas and carrots, two souls who had to weather their storms of pain and humiliation won. 

Those letters Hayes wrote during their time apart? STOP IT. My heart wasn't ready. The raw emotion, the longing - made me tear up.

"You were a part of me in a way that I can't even explain. I would do anything for you, but I also trusted that you would do anything for me."

Ride or D!e Crew

Oh, it is a delight to see these beautiful hunks of men reduced to a puddle for Cutler and their women. Their group chat is as hilarious as ever. They are a beautiful found family.

Redemption

I love how Laura took me on the journey, not just of Hayes and Savannah finding each other again but also of Hayes finding his true self and purpose. And Savannah finds her home in a town she once abandoned. I love how, despite the pain they went through hurting each other unintentionally, they're still there for each other when push comes to shove.

"He's my parner in crime till the end of time, and he's my friend but that doesn't rhyme. Even when I'm lost and in a daze, I can always find my Hayes." - Savannah's poem for Hayes

Peas and Carrots

I love how Savannah brought color and life into Hayes's gray world. He just thought he was content with his life—a good and heroic job, loyal friends, and his wonderful sister—but Savannah showed him what he's been missing and that a selfless person deserves more.

"Savannah Woodson had a gift for bringing everyone around her to life."

Small-town Charm

I love the beautiful town of Magnolia Falls, the heartwarming friendships not just with the RoD guys but also with their women, Beefcake charming everyone as always, and the cute family pets. It doesn't hurt that Magnolia Falls offers a stunning view.

Minor Gripe

I wouldn't have minded seeing Hayes's scheming ex get more comeuppance for causing that damage in their friendship. But watching Hayes and Savannah get their happily ever after? That could be the best revenge.

Verdict

Finding Hayes is the perfect cherry on top of this fantastic series. It's got all the feels, all the swoons, and every reason to fall head over heels for Magnolia Falls one more time. 

This romance will have you believing in second chances and the beauty of coming home to your person. Laura Pavlov has done it again. Can't wait to see where Laura will take us next!

Favorite Quotes

"It had been the girl next door who had my heart all along."

"You came back to town like a blazing wildfire and brought me back to life. Setting my world on fire. And I know without question that we belong together."

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