Review: Great debut
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 02 22, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.I'm always interested in reading new authors, whether they are new to me or new, as in releasing their first book. In this case, Molly McLain is both. After reading Can't Shake You, I was so impressed, I had to ask her if she's sure this is her first. I really loved this book!The characters in this book have depth and a history, something that is important to me. I don't like reading about characters whose pasts I know nothing about. I also don't like writers who feel they have to repeat things over and over to make sure the reader "gets it" or to fill a page. Ms. McLain does none of that as her words and thoughts are clear throughout.Josh Hudson is a former Marine who had a one night fling with Carissa Brandt the night before he was deployed. For three years he couldn't get her out of his mind. While he was gone, Carissa got involved in a relationship of convenience with Josh's best friend, Reed, which ended before his return. When Josh comes home, he keeps Carissa at a distance to stay true to his promise to himself that he would never get involved with his friends' former girlfriends. Unbeknownst to him, Carissa never forgot that night three years ago, either. She knew from that night that he was the one for her.In the midst of flipping a house, Carissa fires her contractor, Alex, for being less than honest. Josh, who now owns his own commercial contracting business offers to help her with the flip. A good idea? Not so much for two people trying to deny their attraction and stay just friends. Despite Josh's determination to keep it just that way, Carissa is not as sure. Will they follow their hearts and take a chance on more? What follows is a nice balance of mystery as to who is trying to sabotage Josh's business, of a long-time friendship between Josh and Reed on the verge of ending, and of a sizzling hot romance between Josh and Carissa.I wholeheartedly recommend this book and to give Molly McLain a try. You won't be disappointed. I look forward to many more small-town stories by this amazing new author. Congratulations, Mollie, on a real winner!