Some romances I just fly through, turning pages and devouring the words and then before I know it I’m done. Then there are others that are more of a savoring kind of thing and this definitely falls into that category. Gregory has us slowly getting to know Hope as she settles into a new home and a new job, near the comfort of the only family that has ever shown her love. It’s harsh to realize exactly what kind of life she’s lived so far and how things have changed so drastically for her. But she’s strong, resilient and hard-working. She’s going to create something new that she loves … and Drew is going to help her (in some unexpected ways).

As Drew works on giving Hope a new place of business and a loft to live in, he gets to know the pretty dancer. And he likes what he sees. But he has a daughter to consider and a heart that was damaged. He may not be the best at showing interest in a woman but Hope easily sees how good of a dad & friend he is. He’s kind and caring and patient. And she’s growing more attracted to him every day.

With two people who have been hurt in the past and are now a little hesitant to give their heart away, Gregory delivers an emotional story of letting go, moving on and opening up. Neither wants to be hurt again but their attraction is hard to ignore. Can they take a chance or will they let their fears stand in their way?

This is the first in this series (and by this author) that I’ve read and while I don’t think it is a requirement to have read anything else since I kept up just fine, it might have helped a little since characters from other stories appear. Especially Drew’s best friend, whose story is hinted at but never explained further. Not pivotal to Drew’s story but it does make me curious about what happened to him. Which I guess could be a good ploy to get me to get his book too :) I will say that I’m not sure if it is because I had an advanced copy or if this is the actual finished book but there were some odd word choices and some editing issues (repeated words, weird punctuation, that sort of thing). This being my first book, so it’s hard to say, but while that kind of thing doesn’t really bother me as much I know that it could turn some people off.

*** I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s. ***