This is a deeply emotional, small-town romance that perfectly blends slow-burn chemistry with heart-wrenching vulnerability. Rain is a tough, sharp-tongued chef who’s used to keeping people at arm’s length, and Xander is a pro hockey player forced to hit pause on his life and career. Their connection is intense from the start, but what makes this story truly shine is the depth of heart beneath all the heat. Watching these two broken people slowly let their guards down and begin to trust each other is both tender and powerful.
I absolutely loved this book—once I started, I couldn’t put it down. Rain and Xander’s story pulled me in and made me feel every bit of their pain, hope, and healing. Between the cozy vibes of Azalea Creek, the sizzling banter, and the emotional depth, this book strikes the perfect balance of angst, growth, and swoon-worthy romance. It’s a story about second chances—not just in love, but in learning to live again.
ABOUT THIS BOOK
He was supposed to focus on his recovery. She wasn’t supposed to fall for anyone—especially not him.
Azalea Creek is a quiet town in the North Carolina mountains—maybe too quiet for foul-mouthed, firecracker chef Rain MacAllister. While her siblings settle into their happily-ever-afters, Rain is stuck watching life pass her by.
Xander González is a seasoned pro hockey player with a season-ending injury and everything to lose. He comes to Azalea Creek for rehab, determined to save his career and legacy. Falling for a small-town chef with a guarded heart isn’t part of the plan.
But Rain tilts his world off its axis.
And no matter how hard she tries to resist, the pull between them is undeniable. But the scars of a past trauma keep Rain locked behind walls. She spent years perfecting her defenses like a carefully crafted recipe—measured, controlled, and impossible to get past.
Even for him.
As Xander shows her that healing isn’t just physical, they begin to imagine a future together.
But when the monster from Rain’s past resurfaces, the life they’ve started to build threatens to crumble.
Will Rain finally speak her truth, and trust Xander to help her slay the demons that still haunt her?
Or will fear bench them before their love gets a shot?
