"From the author of the Magnolia Parks universe and the Never series comes a fresh family drama with a heavy dose of romance and a twist of mystery. When estranged savant Georgia returns to South Carolina for her father's funeral, she finds he left a significant property to someone her family has never heard of. Georgia is determined to uncover the story..."--

Review Quotes:
"Hastings doesn't pull any emotional punches as the angsty plot unfolds. Readers who like their romances on the dark and soapy side will eat this up." -- Publishers Weekly

Publisher Marketing:

*This gorgeous edition comes with French flaps, deckled edges, and spot gloss*

From the author of the Magnolia Parks universe and the Never series comes a fresh family drama with a heavy dose of romance and a twist of mystery.

"I can't remember the last time I couldn't get a handle on myself and my emotions, but the lid is slipping.

Something about the slipping lid feels like it's Sam Penny's fault. Like he broke the seal and he's slowly opening me up."

London-based Georgia Carter, professional lie detector and body-language savant, has long been estranged from her infuriating, close-minded, wealthy South Carolina family. After a falling-out years ago, the chasm runs deep between the black sheep--Georgia and her gay, alcoholic brother--and their parents and elder siblings. But when their father dies suddenly, Georgia returns to the States for the funeral...where she comes face-to-face with Sam Penny, her brother's AA sponsor.

Amid the tensions, dramas and revelations of the family reunion, Georgia and Sam are instantly drawn to each other. However, Georgia's brother also harbors feelings for Sam, and the last thing Georgia wants to do is hurt the only family she's ever really had.

When their father's will reveals a surprising bequest to a mysterious stranger, Georgia's ability to read people becomes crucial in unraveling her father's hidden past. The delicate balance within the family teeters, and secrets--both old and new--threaten to push them beyond the breaking point.

There are only so many cracks a damaged family can take before it shatters.

Review Citations:

• Publishers Weekly 03/17/2025 (EAN 9781464245336, Paperback)