Susan F. (scoutmomskf) -
Very good story of second chances. Back in high school Amy and Derek had been a couple, then secretly married that summer. The marriage ended as quickly as it began, leaving both of them heartbroken before they moved on with their lives. Neither has forgotten the other, though each has coped in different ways. Derek has become something of a flirt, avoiding any hint of commitment. Amy threw herself into school, then her job in Colorado, and has avoided returning to Rust Creek Falls. Now her best friend's wedding has forced her back.
I enjoyed the development of Amy and Derek's relationship. I liked their first meeting. Though both had been dreading it, they behaved like adults since they had to work together for their friends' wedding. Things were still a bit rough at the beginning since both had to come to terms with seeing each other again. They continued to avoid each other until they realized they had to face their pasts. I loved how they opened up and talked honestly about what had happened and their feelings at the time. It also became clear to them that the attraction is still there also. I had to laugh a little at their plan to be friends again, with maybe a little more to it, and explore what was happening - and keep it a secret. They're in Rust Creek Falls, where people are observant and know everyone's business anyway.
I loved seeing Amy and Derek find the magic that had been there before. It was a terrific mix of old and new - I especially enjoyed the video game scene, as well as their more adult activities. But as their time grew shorter, some of their old doubts and fears started to creep in. I ached for both of them as those fears kept them from talking to each other about their plans. I wanted to shake Derek for acting on those fears, and I cried for Amy's heartbreak. I loved the support - and the lecture - that she received from her friends, opening her eyes to some things she hadn't thought of. I adored Derek's big moment. He was sweet and vulnerable and finally able to say the words that Amy needed to hear.
I also enjoyed the backdrop of Luke and Eva's wedding. It's always fun to revisit couples from earlier books. Even brief mentions of others brings back fond memories of their stories and gives the opportunity for a peek at their continuing happiness.
I enjoyed the development of Amy and Derek's relationship. I liked their first meeting. Though both had been dreading it, they behaved like adults since they had to work together for their friends' wedding. Things were still a bit rough at the beginning since both had to come to terms with seeing each other again. They continued to avoid each other until they realized they had to face their pasts. I loved how they opened up and talked honestly about what had happened and their feelings at the time. It also became clear to them that the attraction is still there also. I had to laugh a little at their plan to be friends again, with maybe a little more to it, and explore what was happening - and keep it a secret. They're in Rust Creek Falls, where people are observant and know everyone's business anyway.
I loved seeing Amy and Derek find the magic that had been there before. It was a terrific mix of old and new - I especially enjoyed the video game scene, as well as their more adult activities. But as their time grew shorter, some of their old doubts and fears started to creep in. I ached for both of them as those fears kept them from talking to each other about their plans. I wanted to shake Derek for acting on those fears, and I cried for Amy's heartbreak. I loved the support - and the lecture - that she received from her friends, opening her eyes to some things she hadn't thought of. I adored Derek's big moment. He was sweet and vulnerable and finally able to say the words that Amy needed to hear.
I also enjoyed the backdrop of Luke and Eva's wedding. It's always fun to revisit couples from earlier books. Even brief mentions of others brings back fond memories of their stories and gives the opportunity for a peek at their continuing happiness.
