Summer and Asher’s story is a slow-burn romance set in a small town where everybody knows your business, but also offers unconditional support when there is a need. It includes a good dose of angst and suspense, as well as some steamy interludes. When trouble comes their way, Asher and Summer’s family and friends step up to offer their support, advice and protection.
After Asher rejected her years ago, Summer has done her best to bury her feelings and avoid him whenever possible. That hasn’t been easy since he is her brother’s best friend and they live in a small town. Snark and rudeness are now part of their encounters, a way for her to hide her true feelings. Summer hasn’t had much luck in the relationship department, and though she has tried to move on, she is often lonely and yearning for a partner in life. Asher doesn’t seem to have the same problem and is often seen dating other women. Summer has no idea that Asher is now harbouring deeper feelings for her. Her hostility and snark make telling her about his own feelings impossible. Besides, her brother and his best friend, doesn’t want a guy like him for his sister.
Both Summer and Asher are dedicated to their jobs, jobs that involve taking care of the sick and injured, though his patients are human while hers are animals. They each have stressful days, but he is having trouble dealing with his. Perhaps that is one of the reasons he rejects Summer again when she mentions his odd behaviour whenever he sees her with other guys. He continues to give her mixed signals and the hot, then cold treatment. Another bout of jealousy and seeing other men eager to claim her finally leads Asher to tell her how he feels and ask her for a chance to see if they could be more then the friends/enemies that they are now. Of course she agrees, but it isn’t long before she notices something isn’t right. Asher seems to be a target for some troubling incidents or situations. He doesn’t believe her claim at first, but is then forced to agree that someone is set on causing trouble or even harming him and apparently anyone or anything he cares about. The reappearance of his ex just adds to their troubles. Can they weather the storm headed their way? Will they get a chance to build a future together?
I enjoyed reading this book. The storyline and characters were fascinating and held my attention right from the first page to the last. I will happily recommend this book.