What Comes After Dessert
Ren Benton
Published October 25, 2015
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Stands alone; no connection to other books
92,000 words / 304 pages in paperback
Twelve years ago, Ben Fielder’s childhood sweetheart ran out on him, and his broken heart hasn’t held another woman since. During his annual visit to his hometown, he finds something sweeter than cookies behind the counter at the bakery—Tally’s back in town, and his response to her makes it clear the only flaw in his heart is that it’s still full of her.
Tally Castle knew twelve years ago she wasn’t good enough for Westard’s golden boy. While Ben made a success of himself out in the real world, she made an even bigger mess of her life. The one good part of limping home was that he hadn’t been around to witness her walk of shame. Now the only man she’s ever wanted is back, assaulting her brittle defenses with goofy smiles and serious kisses.
To protect her heart, Tally must remind herself his presence is temporary. To heal both their hearts, Ben must convince her this is only the beginning of their second chance.
Potential Catnip
Small town, second chance, childhood sweethearts.
Content Advisory
Prior childhood physical and emotional abuse and lingering effects thereof, on-page anxiety spirals, death of a parent, body shaming, mention of prior eating disorder, anti-sex work sentiment, prior teen sex (same-age participants), mention of prior miscarriage, and poverty.
Revision History
December 12, 2025: Updated to epub3 format. Upgraded to current accessibility standards. Added content advisory in-book. New cover. Removed some phrasing that made Present Me grimace at Past Me. Minor changes to the text to improve clarity.
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