Tanner, oh Tanner! You stole my heart from the first few chapters!

I freaking LOVED this book (with the exception of having to relive the loss of Mr. Brooks a second time because that wounded me deeply)!!!! From beginning to end, this story consumed me.

Tanner was in the shadows of his brother's success and was understandably bitter about it. He gave up his dreams to help support his family and ailing father. But in the process, he'd also given up on himself. Drinking to mask the pain, caring only about those closest to him, walking around like he was ready to throw down with anyone who looked at him wrong. A completely miserable, shell of a man, until Charlotte entered his line of sight.

She had her own battles to face and secrets to hide. But dang was she strong and courageous! Kristen does an amazing job of creating heroines who are knocked down time and time again but never defeated. They are true warriors! That's what I love most about her books. Extremely smart and independent female leads and equally rivaled heroes. The men aren't there to rescue the damsel in distress, but rather lift them up and walk along side them.

I was so invested in seeing Tanner and Charlotte find happiness in their lives and in each other. The pains and struggles they faced individually and together really built an incredible foundation for their relationship to thrive. So much intense drama and suspense surrounded these two. But in the end, they came out on top and in love.

Gah! I just loved this couple so much and can't wait for another book featuring these incredible characters!