Title: The Healing Summer by Liz Flaherty
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 251 pages
Book Rating: B+
Complimentary Review Copy Provided by the Author
Summary:
When Steven Elliott accidentally rides his bike into Carol Whitney’s car at the cemetery, the summer takes on new and exciting possibilities. Long friendship wends its way into something deeper when their hearts get involved. Feelings neither of them had expected to experience again enrich their days and nights. But what happens when the long summer ends? When Carol wants a family and commitment and a future, Steven isn’t so sure. He’s had his heart broken before—can he risk it again?
Review:
The Healing Summer by Liz Flaherty is a captivating romance that is also a little bittersweet.
Carolina “Carol” Whitney is a compassionate and caring woman who has suffered more than her fair share of heartache and loss. She is a successful business owner and student with a close circle of friends. Carol is not looking for a relationship when she reconnects with Dr. Steven Elliott but their unexpected friendship takes a decidedly romantic turn. Carol cannot deny how much Steven means to her, but will their romance fade when summer ends?
Steven never imagined he would move back to his small hometown. However, after a tragic professional loss, he returns to Peacock for some much needed downtown with his sisters and friends. Although Carol has long been on periphery of his life, their acquaintance has always been somewhat casual. Which is why Steven is rather surprised by how much he enjoys spending time with her. What he finds even more shocking is his unexpected attraction to her.
Carol and Steven are beautifully developed, three dimensional characters. Steven is a well liked, sought after cardiothoracic surgeon and Carol is concerned small town life will eventually bore him. She goes into their relationship with few expectations but she does not count on falling in love. Steven is willing to commit to a short-term romance and he is stunned when his feelings for her deepen. Carol is strong enough to make a tough decision but will Steven decide to risk his heart again?
The Healing Summer is a heartwarming novel of friendship, love and healing. Steven and Carol are vibrant, charming characters with relatable fears, shortcomings and admirable strengths. Their friendship provides a strong foundation for their eventual romance but both of them bring plenty of emotional baggage to their relationship. Steven and Carol have wonderful relationships with their friends and family who give them plenty of love and support. I highly recommend Liz Flaherty’s emotional and uplifting novel to readers who enjoy wholesome, small town romances.
