Lenore Kosinski
4.5 stars — I absolutely loved the progression of the romance in this story. It felt very natural and real. Obviously I enjoy romance of all kinds, but it was refreshing to have this one continue to bypass and step over romance tropes over and over again. They both may have been opposed to a relationship at the beginning, but as their feelings developed, they just went with it. God, that was so nice. It wasn’t as though they didn’t have pushing and pulling, but it was more in line with real life. Winslow was completely unlike what I was expecting for a new Chief of Police, and yet in retrospect she had all the qualities to make a fabulous chief. She was kind, empathetic, and amazingly compassionate. She was also determined, persevering, brave and observant. I loved that she deeply felt the arms-lengthedness of her colleagues, and even the townspeople, but she bravely went in each day trying to win them over. I admired her HUGELY. I appreciated that she stuck to her instincts and did her job even if it interfered with her relationships. Griffin had a bit of a grumpy appeal, though it was more just wariness of outsiders and reluctance. I think he represented a pretty normal small town mindset in that way. But he was also smart, and it didn’t take him long to see who Winslow was and change his opinion of her. I loved how protective he was, how steadfast — for both Winslow and his family. He took his responsibilities seriously, and they weighed on him. I also appreciated that while he might jump to some conclusions at the hands of his emotions, he wasn’t so stubborn that he couldn’t see the error of his ways and apologize. So refreshing. I already mentioned how much I loved them together. They had all the different kinds of chemistry, from steamy to friendship. I loved the way they saw one another and were there for one another. I will admit that I had an inkling about the mystery from pretty early on, but there was definitely a twist I wasn’t expecting. I didn’t mind that I saw one part of it, because I still had no idea how it was going to play out in the end. As with the start of all small town series (or at least the good ones), there was a wonderful secondary cast in this one. Sure, most of them were the Edens themselves, but I am definitely excited to learn more about all of them and see their stories. I haven’t read much from this author yet, but it was wholeheartedly the cover that pulled me in immediately with this one. So happy that it turned out to be such a match for me! Can’t wait to read more.
Jo Webb
What a beginning to a new series!!! I cannot wait to fall in love with more of these Edens. From the setting of the small town of Quincy to the wonderful characters we meet it was just amazing. I loved the enemies-to-lovers vibe from Winn and Griffin. I loved how much they fought their feelings. I loved how explosive they were in and out of the sheets. Devney writes strong female characters so well and the brooding, alpha males she creates are things dreams are made of!! I cannot wait to see how Knox's story turns out next!!