Review: 3.5 stars - Enjoyed it, but it needs more!
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 09 21, 2013
This novella in the Knotted Roots series helps us get to know Katy and Brian a little bit better. From the first book in the series, we know that Katy is Roxie's best friend, who grew up next door to Roxie's grandma. Brian is Chase's little brother. The two of them were supporting characters in the first book, instrumental in pushing their loved ones together. But, they have their own dark secrets that need some attention. They also have an unrealized attraction to each other that is aching to be recognized.They take turns telling their story from their point-of-view, through alternating chapters. As they do their dance around each other, we finally get to hear from Brian about his role in his father's death. We also get to know more about Katy's problems with her drunk mother and her absent father. I feel like I want to explore more about Brian reconciling his feelings about his dad and his jealousy of his brother. I hope this is covered more in later books, because I feel like it is really important to their healing process. Katy is given a chance to start to take steps to rectify her situation with her parents, though it doesn't end the way that you would expect it to. She has a long road ahead of her, but seems to be with the right people to begin that journey.The focus of this book is definitely on the romance between Brian and Katy, who have been friends for as long as they can both remember. I like having another couple in the area, for Chase and Roxie to grow and mature with. I feel like some major changes continue to be in store for them and am curious what obstacles they will have to overcome next. I will definitely read book 2 when it comes out!I gave this book 3.5 stars because I did enjoy the story a lot, but feel like I want more development in these storylines. I do think that you should read this if you are following the series, because particular events at the end will definitely play heavily into the start of Book 2.  I received a complimentary eARC in exchange for my honest review.