Well, Imwas expecting a cozy romance, something on the lighter side... but this book is so much more! I should have known, since I read Katherine Center’s previous novel, How to Walk Away, last year and it was also more than expected. This book did still have plenty of light moment, and was a bit predictable, but did I care? No. I was along for the ride.

Katherine Center craftily works in themes of abandonment, trauma, sexual assault, sexism in the workplace, friendship, and love through the story. This story is timely in the era of #metoo and #timesup, it it doesn’t come across heavy handed and Center doesn’t overtly throw these themes in your face. At the heart of the story is Cassie Hanwell, who is navigating an estranged relationship with her mother and finding her place at a new firehouse while coming to terms with her own PTSD.

I enjoyed learning about the firefighter profession, especially what it means to be a female firefighter in a male dominated profession. The setting of Eastern Massachusetts was quaint and picturesque. Center even throws in a nod and wink to How to Walk Away.

I did read this book quickly because the story was engaging and the words easily flew off the page. The second half took off and I couldn’t stop. I wanted to know if Cassie could overcome her traumatic past to find happiness and forgiveness and love.

I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book. It was a to read.