This story told with heart and soul is an easy read with in depth chacters that you quickly and easily get attached to. I felt it lost a little at the end, had some areas that were wordy and needed to be read quickly, but overall a solid 4 star book.

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I loved this not-at-all-typical romance about the real meaning of love, family and home. The author tackled some deeply emotional and difficult issues with grace, courage and kindness. Thea had some struggles, past and present, and Mitch was the perfect beta hero for her. I loved how when she told him he should be "scared" of getting involved with her, he assured her there was a difference between "being scared and being scared off". Thea said he had "constancy of heart", which made him a great hero. I really, really liked this story.

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Some good characters, but too much "steam" and not enough substance for my taste.

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This is a really well-written book; it's like an onion - as you get into it, layers peel away, exposing a deeper substance. This is Jo Goodman's first contemporary novel; I'm not into contemporary but decided to give it a try because of the interesting premise of the book.

What I REALLY like about Jo Goodman's stories is the fact that the hero is rarely an alpha male. It makes for a much more interesting story - most books have heroes in charge of everything.

Thea Wyndham is a high-powered business woman, co-owning a successful ad agency. Beta personality Mitch Baker is a political cartoonist. Each of these people is best friend to one of Reasoners - Kate and Gabe -- a couple with 3 children.

Mitch and Thea have met through the Reasoners but are not friends. When Gabe and Kate die suddenly in a car crash, Mitch and Thea find themselves guardians of the three grieving children. Mitch immediately takes them into his home; Thea prefers to send money and keep her distance.

Both Mitch and Thea have significant others as the story begins. Constantly taking care of the children puts a strain on Mitch's relationship. Thea and her significant other are engaged and have decided not to have children. Thea's personality screams "Ice Queen."

And then the back stories emerge -- which puts a new spin on everything. Goodman makes use of nuances in feelings, meanings and tone in this story to create a wonderful novel.

I'm glad I read the book, but hope Goodman sticks with historical stories in the future. It is obvious; however, that she can handle the contemporary just as well as the historical. 4.5 stars

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A bit steamy in parts, but an enjoyable read.

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