Thank you so much Harlequin Trade Publishing & NetGalley for this e-arc.

'Heart of the Sun' is a definite must-read!!! It's a heartwarming, hopeful, and beautifully written love story that stays with you long beyond the last page. The tension between Emily and Tuck is apparent from the minute they reconcile. Despite their difficult past, they have an indisputable chemistry. Following their journey back to one another made me very joyful. I thought the plot and characters were amazing.

Heart of the Sun was a unique dystopian/post-apocalyptic story with an underlying love story between childhood friends.

This was my second Mia Sheridan book and after reading Archer's Voice I came in with extremely high hopes. In addition, I do enjoy dystopian books so I thought it would be the perfect blend.

Unfortunately this book and my expectations were not aligned. A majority of the story focused on the post-apocalyptic turmoil facing the country including violence and aggression breaking out everywhere. Our FMC and her current boyfriend as well as our MMC had to navigate this new world and the awkward dynamics between the three of them.

Personally, I struggled to enjoy the goriness that was outlined in this story especially with such a minimal focus on the love story. It truly felt like the love story was an after thought.

I think readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic books as a main genre would highly enjoy this book. I did consume part of the book on audio and the dual narration was done exceptionally well!

Thank you to the publisher for both the ARC and ALC of this book!

This is not at all what I expected. Definitely should have read the synopsis, but I got wrapped up in the hype surrounding this one. I enjoyed this book and needed to find out how it would end, however it just wasn’t my cup of tea.

I enjoyed reading Heart of the Sun: A Love Story by Mia Sheridan. I picked it up because I have enjoyed other books by Mia Sheridan, but this was so much more than I expected. The story of 2 childhood friends, Tuck and Emily who become estranged as life moves on after the death of Tuck's mother. He goes to live with his uncle and get caught up in the wrong crowd. Years later he gets out of prison and is given a job by Nova (Emily's pop start name). Not fond of each other he becomes her bodyguard. During unexpected events they are in a plane crash and have to figure out whats going on and how to survive.

It was action packed as they tried to overcome years of past trauma. With the world in shambles they forge ahead to try to survive in this new world. It was a very interesting story line that I did not know what would happen. If you like romantic suspense, with mystery and action, this is the book for you. If you liked the tv show Jericho or Lost, you will like this book!

Overall the pacing of the book seemed slow. The characters were enjoyable until the time jump and the adult versions of the characters seemed very contrived. The premise of the apocalypse was interesting and I wanted that to be more exciting versus the story being focused on the love story.

I had really high hopes going into this book because I loved Archer’s Voice when I read it and expected this to be in at least the same realm of quality but I struggled through most of the book and it was a bit tedious to finish. I almost never hate the romance aspect of a book. I find just about everything cute in romance books but there was… nothing here? I’m not sure I’ve ever felt so little between two characters in a book and while I’m usually not a big fan of books that have their physical relationship as the cornerstone of their shared interests, I’d choose that over this any day because there was absolutely NO passion here.

I’m not really entirely sure what to say about it beyond that. The romance fell flat, the characters fell flat, and the whole dystopian survival story was… not really that engaging at all. The book really just starts slow and stays slow for the most part. I was really excited for this book to come out but it took me so long to finish because I put it down and picked it back up so many times. I think I read five other books while reading this (which I almost never do) and that was the only way I could make it through. It was an easy enough read technically, but I found myself picking up my phone over and over again while I was “reading” and couldn’t get through this at all. I finally did and I’m pretty sure I should’ve just DNF’d. Still love Archer’s Voice but this one was definitely not for me!

Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC!

*Heart of the Sun* is a stunning mix of romance, emotional depth, and unexpected adventure. Mia Sheridan crafts a gripping second-chance love story with a bold speculative twist that gives the book a fresh, cinematic feel.

From the moment Emily and Tuck reconnect, the tension is palpable. Their past may be complicated, but the chemistry between them is undeniable. The slow burn is *so* worth it, filled with moments of vulnerability, emotional push-and-pull, and that signature Sheridan intensity.

What makes this book stand out is the unique setting that adds urgency and grit without overshadowing the heart of the story. There’s an edge-of-your-seat element as the world shifts around them—and it makes every emotional beat hit even harder.

Emily and Tuck both shine as deeply layered characters. Their growth throughout the story feels earned and authentic, making their journey not only romantic but incredibly rewarding.

Then *Heart of the Sun* is a must-read. Beautifully written, emotionally charged, and full of hope—it’s a love story that lingers long after the final page.

3.5 stars...

Overall, I did enjoy this story. I really liked Tuck's character and Emily's wasn't too bad when it came down to it. I think I created more anxiety for myself reading it, because I could actually see something like this happening.

It is told in Emily and Tuck's alternating POV. They grew up together, but tragedy tore them apart, leading them down very different paths. We don't really get too much of them in the present day before disaster strikes, but I really enjoyed seeing them work together and get through some of their past. For as in-depth as some parts of the book went, I did feel like it suddenly wrapped up, leaving a bit to be desired.

Uhm, what the heck was that Mia Sheridan?! I don’t know why but that was not what I expected and I LOVED IT. the sneakers. The tension. The banter. The sadness. Also I think I kind of now want to become a doomsday prepper. lol

I really wanted to enjoy Heart of the Sun—especially being a fan of Mia Sheridan’s previous emotional romances—but this one just didn’t land for me.

Right from the start, the book was difficult to get into. The pacing felt uneven, and I found myself struggling to connect with the characters or become immersed in the world. Part of the issue, I think, was the lack of clarity about the book’s genre and tone. At times, it read like a classic Sheridan romance, with deeply emotional moments and character-driven tension. But then it would abruptly veer into dystopian, almost post-apocalyptic territory, with world-building that felt underdeveloped and jarringly out of place.

It left me confused—was this supposed to be a love story with a unique setting, or a dystopian saga with romantic elements? Unfortunately, it didn’t commit fully to either, and that genre straddling diluted the impact of both. I kept waiting for the plot to find its footing, but it never quite did.

There are glimmers of what Sheridan does best—intimacy, emotional stakes, and broken characters finding healing—but in this case, they were buried beneath a confusing narrative and world that didn’t feel fully realized. I appreciate the ambition behind trying something new, but for me, this one missed the mark.

Heart of the Sun was not a bad read, I just wasn't feeling it. The premise was there but I felt like it could have been more. The relationship between Tuck and Emily needed more diving into it. I wanted to believe in their romance. The background of a post-apocalyptic world was interesting and I did enjoy that part of the story. It made the story pop out. However the romance, or lack there of, just wasn't enough for me. Tuck was a good character and that boy did deserve much good. I did enjoy Mia Sheridan, Archer's Voice being one of my favorite books but this book did not hit it for me. Though it could be just right for other readers.

This was my first Mia Sheridan book and I did not enjoy it. Her books are hyped up and this one fell completely flat for me. I didn’t buy the romance/feel any chemistry between Emily and Tuck, and I didn’t like either character on their own. Thank you NetGalley and Canary Street Press for the eARC.

Friends, I went in completely blind and have zero regrets!

I cried in my car at least four times, listening to the audiobook, as well. Loved the dual narration!

"It was always leading here." "Yes, always."

"I'd find you in the dark."

I love how Mia is not afraid to try different genres and twists. Yeah, it's a Love Story, which we all know she is amazing with. But this dystopia theme was such an unexpected twist, and I loved it!

This is my first Mia Sheridan book but it will not be my last! A slow burn romance between long separated childhood friends whose lives developed in wildly different circumstances, the focus is actually more of a dystopian survival story, but I was very happy to follow their journey back to each other. Recommended.

I’ve always enjoyed Mia Sheridan’s writing, and while dystopian novels are outside my typical realm, I was drawn in by the claim of a love story. Yes, there is a love story and an HEA, but in my opinion that’s misleading marketing of this book. The struggle to survive a post-apocalyptic event and the journey home really stole the show in this story.

I alternated between audiobook and ebook, and truthfully if I hadn’t, I’m not sure I would have finished. At over 450 pages (book) and over 14 hours (audio), this isn’t a short story by any means. It truly is a journey and listening to the audio helped keep my attention, even if that felt drawn out at times too.

It’s hard to rate a book that’s so vastly different from my usual read. Overall, I’m glad I finished it, but I do wish that the journey was shortened and we got more of a view of the HEA. The ending was very rushed. In fact, the love story itself doesn’t even really start until at least 2/3 through the book, with a majority of it in the back quarter.

I think it’s important to be transparent. If you’re going into this book looking for a love story like previous Mia Sheridan works (such as Archer’s Voice), you’re probably going to be disappointed as many other reviews have pointed out. But if you go in with an open mind looking for something that’s unique with the Mia Sheridan touch, then this just might be the read for you.

3.75⭐️ rounded up

Thank you to HTP Books, Mia Sheridan, and Harlequin Audio for the opportunity to review this digital ARC and ALC. All opinions expressed are my own.

What an amazing book. Becoming one of my favorite authors i loved the storylineand the characters. Was a great read.

This is Mia Sheridan like you haven't seen her before! While this isn't my favourite of hers (how do you beat sweet Archer?), it was a RIDE.

What to expect:
- past and present
- second chance romance between childhood best friends turned enemies!
- she's a famous pop singer, he's her new bodyguard
- forced proximity and banter intensifying their chemistry and tension!
- dystopian, apocalyptic twist thanks to a solar flare
- slow burn romance (because her boyfriend is along for the ride!)

4 stars!
I love Mia Sheridan’s writing — she never fails to draw me in!

This book follows Emily and Tuck as they navigate a dystopian world, and as a huge fan of The Walking Dead and The Last of Us, I couldn’t resist picking this one up. The story starts with a slow but thoughtful build, giving us glimpses of their childhood and the bond they shared growing up. Eventually, we move into the heart of the story — a reunion years later as adults, thrown together in a world that’s been completely transformed.

The childhood friends to lovers trope is one of my favorites, and it’s done so well here. While the romance is central, the story is just as much about their journey — their will to survive, the emotional and physical challenges they face, and the people they meet along the way. I was completely engrossed from start to finish!

And that ending? Absolutely perfect. 💛

Thank you to the author and publisher for the advanced copy of this ebook!

Thank you so much @canarystreetpress and @harlequinbooks for the free ALC & ARC!

“If I could go back, I’d find you in the dark”

Review Title & Vibes:   
What an absolutely wild ride! I’m notorious for going in completely blind on a book… definitely should have at least read the blurb!

On the outset - I thought this was a friends-to-enemies-to-lovers rockstar-bodyguard romance. I mean - it does kinda still have that theme, but it took a hard right turn into an extremely realistic dystopian/apocalypse storyline.

Tuck and Emily have such a complex history - neighbors in a family-owned orange grove in California. When tragedy happens, Tuck moves away and self-destructs. Years later Emily is at the top of the (proverbial) ladder living her best life as “Nova” a highly synthesized pop star version of the singer song writer she longs to be. She gives Tuck a second chance as her body guard.

But when the lights go out… the tables turn. No longer are societies elite at the top, but those with knowledge, experience, and muscle. Their fight to stay alive and make it home is brutal. Lots of beautiful human moments - sharing what you can, but also the reality that life threatening situations can turn society to its worst.

Audio Notes:
{dual} wonderful performance. I was captivated and dialed in the entire time. Some characters were meant to annoy (and succeeded to drive me insane) I would highly recommend!

Rating: 4.25⭐️ | Spice: 2🌶️ | Audio: 5🎙️
What to Expect:
Childhood Best Friends
Enemies to Lovers
Second Chance
Popstar x Bodyguard
Slowburn
High Stakes / Survival Romance
Dystopian

Recommended to...  
All the high stakes romance readers who crave a tension filled slow burn.

Narrated by @andreonthemic @soundslikeannalee
Produced by @harlequinbooks

HEART OF THE SUN
Mia Sheridan
Available ( May 20/25)

Teenagers Emily and Tuck’s mothers are best friends and they live in the wonderful orange orchard land in California. Even though Emily and Tuck bicker, they secretly love each other. But when tragedy strikes, they are sent on different paths… Emily to find her voice with her singing and Tuck to a bad place that results in jail.

Several years later, Emily’s mother convinces Emily to hire Tuck as a bodyguard now that she has hit the big time singing under the name NOVA. As they are flying in a private jet from LA to NYC with Emily’s actor boyfriend, Charlie, solar flares hit the Earth leaving devastation everywhere. Their place crashes, killing the pilot, but the three are spared. Now they must begin their journey from somewhere mid USA to try to get back to California.

This apocalyptic thriller will have you on the edge of your seat until we determine their fates.