This book gave me that delicious ache in my chest over Nate and Rosie. And for each of them individually.

Rosie had a tough life, living with an abusive father. As a child, her only friend was Nathan who lived on the same street. Rosie’s world shatters when Nathan moves away. She writes him a letter - returned as undeliverable.

Nate has had a pretty charmed life it sounds like. His family moved around a bit, but he grew up around and knowing love. He spent time as a pro football player, but now is retired and CEO of his own tech company.

When they meet again as adults, it’s a bit bumpy at first. But Nate is capital D determined to woo Rosie. She doesn’t want anything but a fling - because how can she allow herself close to the golden boy, and risk her heart and her sorry past come to light?

Nathan is the best. He’s a very doting cat dad to Charles. He’s a caretaker through and through. Rosie has a hard time allowing him to help her in any way. She was so traumatized in her youth that she doesn’t recognize that most people show love and kindness without anything in return. And I think that’s where my achy heart originates. As Nate learns more about what her life was like as a child and teen, he feels it very deeply. He wants to be the one to care and protect.

But Rosie never wants him to know about her horrible past - because then he would surely dismiss her.

So ya, there’s some angst in there.

But - on to my favorite character- Charles. This is most realistic fictional depiction I’ve ever seen of a cat. He was definitely a scene stealer.

My only beef with the book is that it’s the last one in the series. I want to learn more about Tony Stoneman!!!

Thanks so much to VPR and the author for allowing me the chance to read in advance of publication.