I was telling a friend recently that I usually know which Catherine Cowles books worked well for me based on how quickly it takes me to get through them -- and I'd say that's certainly true for Hidden Waters, which I started and finished in the same day. I'd already had the inkling that I would like this book based on who the couple was, but I'm glad that it ended up being true when I finally did read it.

Addie & Beckett's story hooked me from the get go. You have these two people carrying the heavy weight of their past experiences on their shoulders, but still trying their best to move forward in their own lives, first of all -- and that sentiment, in and of itself, is relatable despite the fact that I've been lucky enough not to experience what either of them have been through. And then, you see them making a connection with each another - the instant chemistry, the playful sparks, the growing admiration, the instinctive protectiveness, the unquestionable care. Watching these two dance around each other, watching them fall for each other... it really warmed my heart to see.

Unlike other Cowles novels I've read, I didn't necessarily love the suspense element in this. It probably is because I didn't find it unpredictable, and it felt more straightforward than most of what I've seen from her in other books. Which is not to say that it didn't fit with the story - it did, of course, and it was still harrowing and heartbreaking at turns - but it just wasn't my favorite. I also didn't feel like we dove as deeply into the emotional baggage both our characters bring to the table, especially in terms of finding more solid resolution (on both ends) by the end.

At the end of the day though, Addie and Beckett's story was definitely one that kept me turning the pages. It's a solid addition to the Tattered and Torn series, and given I was quite invested in seeing these two fall in love and get their happy together ending, I can say that I overall enjoyed it.

⭐️ 4.5
🌶️ Open Door, Mild

🏔️ Romantic Suspense
🏔️ Friends to Lovers
🏔️ Forced Proximity (Roommates)
🏔️ Opposites Attract
🏔️ Cinnamon Roll Hero
🏔️ Dual POV (First Person)

I loved Addie and Beckett's story. Besides Shiloh's book, I think this was the story I was looking forward to the most. Beckett was a secretly tortured hero and Addie's past was definitely a struggle to overcome. Seeing these two become the other's safe space was so sweet. Catherine will always keep you on your toes with the twists in her book! 

Such a good book. I love this series. So much trauma and strength. They were definitely made for each other. I may have cried towards the end