I can't believe how many times I gasped while reading this book! I mean, I can, because Brenda Novak does not shy away from the thrills (or romance). This one was no exception!

Sloane is an unstoppable force, who has made it big after leaving her home town. After losing her best friend, and with a passion to solve her mother's murder, Sloane returns to the same drama she left behind. A father and brother who make you want to punch them, a (former) friend whose jealousy turned their friendship cold, and the hot former flame (of course).

I loved that this book kept me guessing. Sloane thinks her father killed her mother - but did he? Every stone unturned had me second guessing (the unveiling is SO good). Her complicated friendship with her former friend and how they navigate their rekindled relationship reminded me that sometimes we let things come between us that really shouldn't.

And, speaking of rekindled, you know no one comes back to town without checking in on the one that got away. I'm a fan of the love triangle and watching Sloane navigate this one was a treat. I can't lie - I was cheering for them the whole time.

If you want a little dark and a little light, add Before We Were Strangers to your holiday wishlist!