♡ Thank you for the free book and audiobook, St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley.
Synopsis
Katie Vaughn has been burned by love in the past—now she may be lighting her career on fire. She has two choices: wait to get laid off from her job as a video producer or, at her coworker Cole’s request, take a career-making gig profiling Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer in Key West.
The catch? Katie’s not exactly qualified. She can’t swim—but fakes it that she can.
Plus: Cole is Hutch’s brother. And they don’t get along. Next stop paradise!
But paradise is messier than it seems. As Katie gets entangled with Hutch (the most scientifically good-looking man she has ever, but also a bit of a love hater, along with his colorful Aunt Rue and his rescue Great Dane, she gets trapped in a lie. Or two.
Swim lessons, helicopter flights, conga lines, drinking contests, hurricanes, and stolen kisses ensue—along with chances to tell the truth, to face old fears, and to be truly brave at last.
Thoughts
This was a quick read with a fun setup and some heartfelt moments. The small-town charm and side characters added warmth, even if the central romance was not on fire. While the emotional depth and chemistry could have been stronger, the story still offered a Center’s usual charm.
★★★☆☆
☊ Listening to this story via audiobook was enjoyable. Narrator Patti Murin did a lovely job.