March 27, 2017
Long before landscaper Emma Rush’s brother died in the service of his country, she felt a strong attraction to his best friend, Ryan Blake. Now Ryan has returned to Haven, N.C., as a partner in Off-the-Grid Adventures, and he seems ready to settle down after a decade away. Emma can’t seem to get him out of her mind or her heart. Once she decides to liven up her dating life, Ryan has a hard time letting go of his promise to Emma’s brother to protect her, but not date her. However, his resistance begins to crumble as he realizes that Emma has grown into a confident and creative woman. Their love story isn’t particularly complicated or surprising, but readers will enjoy watching Lacey build compelling characters who speak like real people and interact with friends and family, rather than living in a “couple bubble.” Lacey’s small-town romance is a perfect weekend read. Agent: Sarah Younger, Nancy Yost Literary Agency.