Gemma thought she had her future all mapped out. She had a wonderful husband, a cute apartment, and plans to start a family. But just months after their wedding, illness took her husband from her. And now she finds herself trying to think up new dreams, when all she really wants are her old ones back.

Across town, Dan’s also rethinking his life. He’s about to meet his twelve-year-old daughter, Casey, for the very first time. She’s tracked him down because she needs a place to stay for the summer while she receives treatment for a brain tumor at the city hospital, and Dan is terrified he won’t be up to the task of taking care of her; after all, he’s structured his entire life so that no one has to rely on him.

But when fate (with the help of Gemma’s scruffy terrier, Bear) brings these three strangers together one scorching July morning, there’s an instant connection among them. And it soon becomes clear that this summer could change everything–if only they’ll let it.

Will Gemma, Dan, and Casey be brave enough to let love in and build a new life together? Or will they let fear keep everything they’ve ever wanted just out of reach?

I picked this book up because of the cover (yes, I do that). I actually started the book and stopped it because the opening is pretty heavy — a young widow, a 12yo with cancer, and the deadbeat dad who comes back into her life.

Those opening chapter stuck with me though, so I borrowed the book from the library again to finish it, and I’m so glad I did. This is actually the type of book I prefer — real life issues but lots of hope and redemption (and, of course, romance!). My heart really broke for these characters, but I also found myself rooting for all of them. Even Angelica.

If you like books by Jill Mansell and Katherine Center, I highly recommend this book.

Rated PG-13 for language (it’s British, so a few extra f-bombs) and adult situations (discussed but not shown). Get your copy here!

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