ARC Book Review: Dandelions and Smoke by Alyssa-Ray Bouman
Sep 16
1 min read
Rory Bolton has spent most of her life believing she’s too messy, impulsive, and chaotic to truly belong—until the small town of Turtle Bay begins to feel unexpectedly like home. Chief Garrett Mason is carrying wounds of his own, haunted by a failed marriage and the belief that loving someone means sacrificing pieces of yourself. After one unforgettable night brings them together, Garrett discovers Rory never actually left town—and staying away from her proves impossible. As two people accustomed to blaming themselves for the damage left behind, they may finally find someone who loves them without asking them to change.
Dandelions and Smoke
Alyssa-Ray Bouman
Cozy Pines Cafe, # 2
Publisher: Independent
Published Date: September 18, 2026
Genres: Contemporary, Fiction, Romance
Date Read: Sept 12-15, 2026
Format: 📱
Source: Author
As always, if you prefer a spoiler-free review, please read my quick review instead of the in-depth review below.
Quick Review (Spoiler Free)
Every time I read another story by Alyssa-Ray, I am completely taken away. This is another, ‘I stayed up too late reading’ kind of book.
I really enjoyed Rory and her ‘adventures’. She is the perfect amount of spunk + ADHD chaos. It was such a fun time!
I really like the amount of lightheartedness that is mixed with real life lessons that she writes. I think a lot of people will find some common ground with Rory and realize they too deserve love.
I would like to thank Alyssa-Ray Bouman for this eARC opportunity!
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