I liked the premise of this book. It's always nice, refreshing really, to see stories that center around people in their forties. I had trouble with the narration, however, it felt grating to me, a bit shouty, so that I didn't want to listen to it for extended periods and it distracted from actually following the story. Perhaps, I would have enjoyed this one more in text.

I received an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was a great romance that shows love and desire don't end after 40. When Leelo takes over her Uncles motel and bar that has fallen into disrepair, she feels daunted by the task of the renovation but ready for the change. After a failed marriage to a manipulative verbally abusive man and an estranged relationship with her kids this move is just what Leelo needs.

Roar owns the lodge down the road from the motel, alone since his marriage ended due to infidelity Roar puts all his energy into helping his neighbors and his mom while trying to hold himself together. Several tours in Afghanistan, the loss of his baby, the infidelity of his wife and the loss of a best friend have left him raw and closed off until he sees the tattooed blue haired woman determined to make a go of the motel next door.

This romance combines with a mystery as the lodge, and the motel keep getting vandalized and Leelo doesn't seem to be able to catch up. As despair starts to settle in she also has feelings blossoming for the handsome cranky neighbor next door.

This is turning out to be an excellent series. I wasn't sure about the female narrator at first but her voice grew on me.

The story is interesting but the narrator is all wrong. I understand that the female MC is 47 but the narrator makes her sound twenty years older. Hard to listen to- but I would read it- but had to stop listening because of this.

This is a great book following a couple in their mid 40s. I loved especially how mature they appeared, while still fun, making this a realistic take on a relationship between two good, well-rounded people. As someone who is mid 40 as well, I appreciate books where the authors don't introduce silly misunderstandings and issues that are irrelevant and easily fixed by just a tiny bit of communication, just to provide some angst. This book doesn't do that and the couple stands strong against a real threat and they work together to bring happiness into their lives and the lives of the people around them. (I loved the supporting cast too, including Leelo's children and Roar's mom)

The narration is well done as well. Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to the book. I have to say, I'm especially impressed with Austin Barringer who has a very smooth voice and ability to play multiple characters. I looked up his history of narration and I think this is his first book? He did amazing. .Anneliese Rennie did well too although her narration was a little tinny- I am not sure if that is due to the equipment she used or if it was just my version of the audiobook. Overall, this was very good narration that elevated my immense enjoyment of the story itself.