My favorite in this series to date! I love me a simp hero. Dallas is in looooooo early with Hemi since they were kids. But sadly, his maturity level hasn’t changed since he was 17, and so he shows his affection by being an annoying shit to Hemi. Anything he can do to keep her attention. And Hemi is over it - she has no time to listen to or forgive Dallas for his juvenile behavior. But then Dallas starts to grow up and show more maturity in demonstrating emotion. And Hemi gets over the injustices of high school-finally!- and acknowledges that Dallas is actually a kind and caring guy who made some mistakes as a kid.

I really don’t understand why Hemi was so fixated on a high school reunion. Especially if there wasn’t anyone who she actually wanted to see. In this I felt Hemi - despite her protests otherwise - was still living in her teen years and forcing herself to be miserable.

Once the inevitable crash came around Dallas and Hemi - I enjoyed seeing Hemi fall apart and acknowledge her feelings. She finally grew up and faced her scary feelings. And slow clap to Dallas for taking a stand for himself. That also showed growth.

The sexual dynamic between these two was so hot. He really appreciated her as a powerful woman, to be sure.

And the Canadiana references!! Yay!!! Butter tarts and the Niagara Escarpment and summer Friday traffic to Huntsville, RIP Gord and the Practically Hip concert!

The whole story was just delightful. I felt seen in Hemi’s story. And Dallas really was the most Golden Retriever hero that ever smiled and fetched and adored.

Thanks so much to Helena Hunting for a chance to read and review prior to publication on Nov 14.