Bloom Town: Exodus: A Novel (The Bloom Town Duology Book 2)

Bloom Town: Exodus by Ally North is the stunning sequel to Bloom Town: Genesis, and it delivers an even deeper, more emotional ride that left me breathless. Picking up right where the first book left off, BT Exodus wastes no time plunging us back into the Wild West, as Abby Proctor races against time to save Joey “JT London,” the outlaw who has captured her heart. Transparently, I got these books because the covers were too gorgeous to pass up, and after reading the synopsis, it was one of the fastest one-clicks of my life. Little did I know how much I would fall in love with this series. Ally North has truly cemented herself as a must-read author for me, and BT Exodus solidifies her mastery of storytelling, character development, and romance. One of the many things I loved about this book is how it brings the West to life. North’s world-building is impeccable, making you feel the vastness of the desert, the grit of the chase, and the danger lurking around every corner. But as with BT Genesis, this novel is so much more than just a romance. It’s about found family, resilience, and the power of choice. North continues to show how the family you choose can bring more love and peace than the one you’re born into, and that theme is woven beautifully into every character’s journey. The character development in BT Exodus might even richer than in the first book. Is that possible?! Abby truly shines in this one—her strength, grit, and determination leap off the page as she steps…

I read both books before writing the review just in case I thought. Well, damn if the second didn’t almost eclipse the first. So it’s going to sound hypocritical, as I’m writing a review, but I don’t trust the reviews especially in this genre. I’ve been burned too many times. Just keeping it real. That’s my way of saying I was skeptical, especially because I was unfamiliar with the author. The reviews were glowing and as the kids say, it wasn’t ’cap.’ That means a lie for those of you unfamiliar. This has been the best year of lesbian fiction/romance ever! I thought I was at the pinnacle already with three of my top five authors all putting out content this year. Then, one ubiquitous Ally North blew in and landed with just two books I’ve read from her right on my top five list. I won’t mention who was usurped, I do have manners. What a masterpiece of writing. A sublime blend of plot and spice. I was riveted in both books, pulled by a mastery of plot, character development, and theme. It’s endearing, suspenseful, loving, sexy, all the things really. Most importantly it’s not tone deaf. Wow, historical fiction with an eye to how others experienced the world without further othering them. I’ll be damned. I could say a great deal more, but I’ll end with a thank you. Truly this author could write in any genre and damn if it doesn’t feel good to have it be here elevating this special space. Can’t wait for what’s next.