Member Review

Jess Cavendish ran away from an abusive relationship and left it all behind. She's squatting in an empty house when the owner comes home and asks her to stay with him and help him fix it up. Gethin Thomas is starting life over after the end of a long-term relationship that had him feeling lost, so he sees a kindred soul in Jess and decides to offer a place to stay. It's the beginning of an unusual friendship that could lead to so much more, if only Jess can be brave enough to risk falling in love.

This is such a calm and soothing story. There's something about them being in their 40s with their set personalities and comfort in their skin that makes it feel soothing to follow along as Jess and Gethin build up their home. Even when we eventually get the awful details of everything that happened with Jess's former partner, it doesn't feel as heavy because Gethin is right there to offer her support and safety.

It's one of those stories where nothing much seems to happen, but the reality is that so much is built on the little moments, and it feels special to be a part of the times that build up a sweet and healthy relationship.

Very happy thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine | Dell for the comforting read!