4.5 Delightful, Sizzling Stars!
I loved this sweet, and emotional story about family, regrets, hope, and love. Tae's mom, April, had Tae when she was a young teen. They essentially grew up together with Tae taking on most of the responsibility. April did the best she could, and Tae loved her mom, but felt starved for affection. Riggs was popular in school, but a not so happy life at home. He was attracted to the tough, smart, and snarky Tae. They were each others firsts, but their feelings scared them and they broke apart. Now years later, Riggs is back in town after leaving the military, to help his wounded warrior brother for the summer. When Tae and Riggs meet again, the sparks explode. But neither is looking for another complication in their life. Tae wants to find her father, without hurting her mom, and Riggs wants to leave town before he gets attached, and they leave him first. With the fiery desire burning between them, they agree to a temporary benefits arrangement. As they spend time together and see the unexpected, steadfast support and selfless actions, they begin to image a future might be possible. But when a secret comes to light, Tae feels betrayed, Will she be able to forgive Riggs and trust him again, or will she push him away again, for good? I was completely captivated by Tae and Riggs' story. They challenging each other, and even though they were both warriors, they helped heal and open each others heart to family, friends, and love. I loved how strong, fun and independent Tae was, and Riggs really cared for others even as he hid behind his hard exterior. He is so swoony with a heart of gold. I also fell hard for all their quirky friends and family who added so much fun and heart to this book, especially April's heartfelt story. I loved this delightful, moving, and sizzling romance!