This was my first Nora Roberts and I have to say I really enjoyed it. It was also my first time reading a book that was simultaneously mystery and romance. I went into this book with some hesitation, as Roberts is a household name who publishes a ton of books a year, so I wasn't sure what I'd be getting here, especially as I also just read my first James Patterson and was sorely disappointed. Roberts is no doubt a much more talented writer, and very deserving of being so well known.

The first part of the book immediately pulled me into the story and made sure that I'd want to see this through to the end. The middle parts, although slower and not mysterious, were really nice, although  the male love interest was a little obnoxious at first. I thought I'd get sick of all the renovation talk, but I loved seeing Naomi make a life for her and settle down in the little town.

I can't say the reveal was surprising. I couldn't see how the bad guy could have been anyone else, but I didn't mind there not being a huge twist. I'd rather it be predictable than the whole book being full of red herrings and the twist being too much of a reach.

One negative thing I will say is that there were a few pieces of dialogue that felt super weird or just out of character. For example, when Naomi and Xander went to talk to and comfort Loo, Naomi started shilling her prints for the bar. Read the room. Or when Naomi told Jenny and Kevin about her history, Jenny asked Naomi to apologise for not trusting them enough earlier, even though they've only known each other for a few months. So there were a few odd moments and a few bits of confusing writing as well, but all in all I'm pleased to have read this.