This book had all the makings of a second in series book, which wasn’t necessarily a good thing, considering I haven’t read the first. There were a lot of characters, and they weren’t really described enough for me to know/remember who they were, or why things were the way they were (Mal’s “accident” and use of a cane are still a complete mystery to me.)

The story itself was interesting enough, though it was wordy in places I didn’t feel needed quite so many words. There were lots of details included about horticulture and architecture and medicine and charities that went in one ear and right out the other while my eyes kinda glazed over.

That said, I liked Duncan and Temperance. I liked how real they felt—their pains and past hurts were very believable. I liked Duncan’s love for his family, and how much that family loved and accepted Temperance, despite me having trouble keeping everyone straight. I loved Duncan’s humor and Temperance’s strength and bravery, and I especially appreciated the unresolved feelings surrounding her parents—because they were horrible and I would have been sad if she gave in and let them in after all that went down.

As long and sometimes confusing as this story was, I didn’t want to put it down and did enjoy the overall story.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love the way the author writes, vividly describing places, people, and things so that it comes to life in your mind. I love not just the two main characters, who are wonderfully human and flawed, but the entire cast of the story. You could feel the familial love from the Brady family radiating off the page. I really enjoyed the ebb and flow of the relationship between Temperance and Duncan, I could never quite tell what was going to come next with them and it made the story really interesting to follow. Overall the story was well paced, though I didn’t enjoy the abrupt time jumps. I also couldn’t help but feel like I was missing nods to the first book with some of the references the characters made. It left me with a disjointed feeling that I couldn’t shake. I wish I had known it was the second book in a series, now I have to track down the first! Very grateful to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC!

Absolutely love Jen Devon! Thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC. Ever since Jen’s debut novel I have been eagerly awaiting her sophomore novel and it did not disappoint. Already eagerly awaiting her next story!!!

2.5 Stars
I want to love this author's books, but they are just not for me, and it makes me sad. When I read Bend Toward the Sun, I listened to it. I had some frustrations with the third person flowery writing during that process that I thought might have been better if I read instead of listened. Well, Right Where We Left Us proved me wrong. Reading was not better. In fact, it might have been worse because it influenced the pace of the book for me.

The descriptive writing style made it feel long and slow. In the beginning, I was intrigued by the characters and their story. I loved getting to know Declan and Temperance. I was curious what had driven them apart and how they would find their ways back to each other. That initial intrigue was lost as I waded through the rest of the book. Repetitiveness made some parts feel boring. There were many times I wanted to yell at Declan and Temperance to have a mature conversation. Same for them when dealing with their families. I had to push myself to continue to read after 20% all the way to about 80% before I was interested again. Which is sad because I enjoyed how things ended up working out for them at the end.

I have a feeling this book is going to work out for other readers, it just wasn't a great experience for me despite loving the characters and setting.

I loved this story so much. At the very beginning I felt like it was a little wordy and I was worried there’d be too much fluff. Once you got into the meat of the story there was never a moment where I didn’t feel like it was easily a 5 star read. I’m a sucker for a second chance romance and this one is near the top.

The author has woven an intricate story with complex, multiple characters that are oftentimes, so jumbled that the gist of what you just read is unclear and confusing. My first thought was that I had missed a prior book in the series ( had to check that out), because of the many unexplained players mentioned and lack of context from the beginning of the first chapter. The characters were three dimensional enough to be interesting once you figured out who's who and could understand their thought processes. Duncan and TJ, the main characters, were unconventional sweethearts who were too immature to handle their feelings and this played out over the years as they never could get a stronghold on their attraction. The interwoven past reminiscences and the present events were indecipherable at times and slowed progression through the book. I can't say that I particularly liked this writing style which , coupled with the constant greenhouse references , made it more about clarifying what I read , than anticipation of the story. I appreciate Netgalley for this early read that was surprisingly aptly titled.

"Right Where We Left Us" tries to be a sweet love story with Duncan and Temperance, and the writing is pretty, and the plot moves at a decent pace. Butttt it kinda falls flat. Duncan, part of the Brady clan, and Temperance had this teenage love thing going on. But, plot twist, they split because of some choice Duncan made. Now, here's the kicker—the whole tension in the book hangs on this one issue that could've been solved with a simple chat.

There's this whole bunch of extra stuff thrown in—meddling parents, sibling drama, health problems—and it just confuses things. I found myself zoning out, trying to remember what the heck the main problem was. If we had more flashbacks to when Duncan and Temperance were teen lovebirds, that might've helped. Instead, we're supposed to buy into their eternal love without much backstory.

Honestly, if they cut the extra drama and focused more on the relationship, this book could've been way better.
Cool concept for a story, but the execution... Not so much.

I had a really really hard time connecting to any of these characters. I also had a difficult time with how many characters came to me at once at the very start. I felt quite overwhelmed at times. The pacing felt a bit off and I have a hard time when something that could be so easily fixed just gets dragged on and on.

This is a second chance romance with “forced proximity” vibes. TJ (Temperance) and Duncan had a young love fling in their teenage years that ended too soon. They reconnect when TJ’s best friend marries Duncan’s brother and we follow them through complicated feelings and outside motives keeping them apart.

I gave it a 3 because it felt a bit longer than it should’ve been which means I noticed the same repetitive “push and pull”from them for longer than I liked. The reason for them not getting together didn’t feel like the big deal that TJ was making it out to be. I was getting mad at her towards the end because she could not communicate as an adult, something that irritates me in books. Like please use your words! Nobody can read your mind or guess your feelings.

But I got summer by the lake with a big family vibes and I loved that! It was an enjoyable read and I’m happy I was introduced to this author.

In the realm of romantic literature, Jen Devon's "Right Where We Left Us" emerges as a captivating tale that delves into the intricacies of love, loss, and second chances. The story revolves around Temperance Jean Madigan (TJ) and Duncan Brady, two individuals who have been entangled in an on-again, off-again relationship since their passionate summer together at the tender age of eighteen. Despite their undeniable chemistry and TJ's closeness to Duncan's family, they find themselves as virtual strangers, trapped in a cycle of adversarial banter, awkward small talk, and occasional messy hookups. As fate would have it, a wedding at the Bradys' vineyard brings TJ back into Duncan's life for the summer, rendering their avoidance strategies futile. TJ struggles with the weight of Duncan's intense gaze, while Duncan grapples with the constant distraction of having the fiery TJ in close proximity. As they are forced to confront their feelings, buried tensions resurface, old wounds demand confrontation, and the once-in-a-lifetime love they shared begs for a final chance to flourish. Jen Devon masterfully weaves a narrative that is both poignant and humorous, capturing the complexities of human relationships with authenticity and grace. Her characters are vividly drawn, each possessing their own unique voice and motivations. TJ and Duncan are particularly well-developed, their struggles and triumphs resonating deeply with readers. The supporting cast, too, plays a significant role in shaping the story, adding layers of depth and intrigue. One of the strengths of "Right Where We Left Us" lies in Devon's ability to explore the nuances of love and relationships. She delves into the challenges of maintaining a connection amidst misunderstandings, pride, and past hurts. The novel serves as a reminder that love is not always easy, but it is worth fighting for when it is genuine. Devon's writing style is fluid and engaging, effortlessly drawing readers into the story. Her prose is peppered with vivid imagery and sensory details that bring the setting and characters to life. Whether describing the idyllic vineyard landscapes or the emotional turmoil of her protagonists, Devon's words paint a vivid tapestry that captivates the senses. "Right Where We Left Us" is a compelling exploration of love, loss, and the power of second chances. Jen Devon weaves a tale that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, leaving readers emotionally invested in the journey of TJ and Duncan. With its relatable characters, poignant storytelling, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is a must-read for fans of contemporary romance and anyone who believes in the enduring power of love.

I really loved this story of previously on-again/off-again couple TJ and Duncan, brought together again due to a family wedding. This is my first Jen Devon book, and I didn't know this was part of another series, so I'm anxious to go back and catch up.

I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH I DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW TO TALK ABOUT IT.

Jen Devon is such a powerful voice in the contemporary romance space. Like oh my gosh. The Brady family has my whole heart, and I loved Bend Toward The Sun (first in the series) but Duncan and Temperance TORE ME APART.

And I knew they would. I knew it on the first page. But that in no way spoiled the ride.

Honestly, it's going to be hard to find a book I fall for as hard as I fell for this one for a while. I love it I love it I love it.

Jen Devon's sophomore novel, Right Where We Left Us, brings us back home to the big, boisterous Brady family and their circle of friends in the follow-up to Bend Toward the Sun. I enjoyed her debut novel, so I was excited to revisit these characters, but you could easily read this as a stand-alone, too.

Right Where We Left Us is the story of Duncan Brady, the hardworking, funny, super-good-looking Brady brother who helps run the family business, and Dr. Temperance Madigan, the younger sister of Brady's sister-in-law and a longtime family friend. Duncan and Temperance shared an intense summer romance as teenagers that ended in heartbreak, and the attraction has always lingered. When circumstances push the two of them together, they have to face their feelings and get honest with themselves and each other. Re: lots of angst, sexual tension, regrets, forced proximity, and some spicy scenes.

One thing Devon does well in this series is focusing on strong friendships and family relationships. The friendship between Rowen, Frankie, and Temperance anchors the series, as does the relationship between the Brady siblings and their parents. Those relationships provide a stark contrast to the cold, manipulative interactions that Temperance and her sister Maren have with their parents.

Devon also seems to be setting the stage for a 3rd book in the series; fingers crossed!

Thank you, St. Martin's Griffin and Net Galley, for an advanced copy of the book to review.

What a cute & quick read! Also helped me out of my reading slump🥹🥹
Will post the full review near publishing date🫶🏼

A round of applause for Jen Devon and this book! Bend Towards the Sun was my favorite book of 2022 (and quickly became one of my favorites of all time). I fell in love with Temperance and Duncan in that book, so needless to say, I had VERY high hopes for Right Where We Left Us. I can confirm Jen delivered and then some!



Right Where We Left Us thrusts us back into the world of the Brady Family and the Cloud Tide B&B and Winery, this time following Duncan Brady and Temperance Madigan. This time, the two are forced to confront their complicated past and figure out what the future looks like for both of them.



Jen Devon writes truly beautiful book. I cannot tell you how often I’ll read a line, set the book down, and pick the book back up to reread it again because of how bewitching it was. Every character is so unique and you cannot help but feel like the Brady family (and really all supporting characters) are truly flesh and blood real. The tension and angst leap off the page, and you will fall in love over and over again with Duncan and Temperance. I love a good second chance romance, but this one truly takes the cake. And the hints about Malcom’s (potential) love story have me not so patiently waiting for the next book!



I have already left a space on my shelf next to Bend Towards the Sun for this book when it comes out this summer. Please consider preordering or requesting from your library!



Thank you so very much to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Griffin for the ARC!

Temperance is a paediatrician struggling to keep her small town clinic open, but is forced to take a break in the summer to help her best friend get married and heal her body from a minor accident. The only catch is her ex-boyfriend and longtime love, Duncan, is the brother of the groom. Will Temperance and Duncan be able to sort through their messy past to find love together in the present?

I really enjoyed the first book in the series, Bend Toward the Sun, and Jen Devon's writing is warm and inviting. I also liked Temperance and Duncan as characters, as well as the other brothers in the family. There were so many extra characters mentioned that at times it was confusing to keep track of everyone, and I feel like the tension between Temperance and Duncan was never fully explored. It really felt like the two of them could have talked one time and solved all of their misunderstandings.

There was also a plot point about Temperance being in debt that was never fully explained or resolved.

I was happy that the characters ended up together but found myself wondering over and over again what their actual connection was based on, since they kept expressing frustration that the other person didn't see or understand them for who they are as adults. The final section of the book where they have their conversation that brings them back together and they confess their love seemed a little rushed because they didn't resolve these issues.

This book was overall a light read and gave me the cozy small-town feels. I especially like the scenes with the festivals and parties, and the author is excellent at describing the setting of the farm. If the next book is about Malcolm and Frankie, I'm interested in reading it!

Right Where We Left Us is a Fantastic story about friends, family, relationships, & passion. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book on #NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own, but hopefully, you'll put this on your TBR list.
Right Where We Left Us is a stand-alone by Jen Devon, but do yourself a favor & read Bend Towards the Sun first cause then you'll know a little more of the back story as well as a better introduction to the infamous Brady family.
Right Where We Left Us is an evolving storyline as you read it. Sorry to steal the ogres/onion analogy from Shrek, but this story is like peeling back the layers of an onion to learn more and more about the history of the two main characters that you follow through the book. Speaking of following, my biggest gripe about this book is the challenge of following the timeline throughout the story. The story goes from the present time to 15 years in the past, then back to the present time, and then it jumps to two weeks later, which then becomes the new present time. I personally think Jen Devon is a talented writer, but I'm hopeful her next book will flow better as a timeline cause her characters are hilarious & her ability to write romance is top-notch!

A beautiful novel in which I do not think the cover does it justice! Devon hits me in the heart with her beautiful prose and emphasis on emotional resonance. I couldn’t put this book down and think that it’s going to be a big hit if people can look beyond the cover. This book would also be good for book club discussions, with lots of deaths beyond what seems initially like a simple romance novel. Highly recommend it!

The pining on this one was reaaaaal. Second chance romance is the superior trope. The interconnected relationships and complex dynamics of the side characters in this story made this one so much more special. Once I got past the characters and all the names, I really loved Temperance and Duncan’s story. This made me feel all the feels and I’m excited to read more books by this author!

I loved Jen Devon’s debut and I’ve been waiting for Right Where We Left Us for almost 2 years and was not disappointed as it literally takes you right where she left us in Bend Toward the Sun.
Right Where We Left Us is a beautifully written second chance romance about Temperance and Duncan. We get to see how after 14 years they finally resolve their issues and finally get together after so much angst.
I loved that we get to see Harry, Rowan, and the Brady Bunch again.