I listened to the audiobook version of this story. I am so glad I did. Maxine Mitchell and Joe Arden both were fantastic as Scarlett and Parish. Both Scarlett and Parished had suffered terrible tragedies before they met so this made for a very emotional story. This is why I am so glad I listened in audio because Maxine and Joe are at their best with emotional scenes.
I also loved that the HEA was very hard fought but was so satisfying. One of my favorite stories of the year. ( )

I feel like this review should be alternately titled: True Confessions - don't judge a book by the first 2 chapters.
Those who love to talk books and follow me here, know one thing: Karen doesn't do angst.
Unless you are Claudia Burgoa and I allow her to get away with that nonsense.

The next part of 'forgive me book world for I have sinned' is that I picked up and started this book over not once, not twice but too many to remember. I mean this book - is sad. Not a little sad. I mean full on, this is so sad, oh my god this is so so sad.

Then something happens.

A spark.

A glimmer that yes, this will be a book I will long remember after I am done reading. And yes reader friends, like me you need to be in the right frame of mind for this beautifully told 'friends-to-lovers' tale. Although it starts out with pulverizing the organ in your chest, it has wonderful moments of laughter and banter, sexy smoldering times that make up for the loss you endure watching these characters adapt to. No one ever recovers from grief
Parish was an amazing hero. Ms. Pike really gave a multifaceted look at his story arc. At times you wanted to smack him and at others protect his heart. Scarlett was 'every woman'. She's the one trying to keep everything and everyone together. And who is looking after her? My heart equally hurt for Sam. He approaches wanting to be independent but held back by his grief. I am still not sure who needed the other more: Parish or Sam. Having to the privilege to read their story add so much to 'just a romance.'

This is a standalone you want to read when you are ready. And trust me. You want to take the time to read their story.

Rating: Buy ( )