In the town of Snowberry Creek, there is always hope….
Wounded in combat, Leif Brevik is haunted by survivor’s guilt. For the first time in his life—unsure if he still has a military career in his future—he feels completely lost. So when a war buddy calls for help with restoration of their fallen brother’s house, he jumps at the chance to regain a sense of purpose.
Zoe Phillips is assigned to monitor Leif’s physical therapy while he’s in town. But she’s a former military nurse, and she senses that his wounds are more than just physical. As she pushes the handsome soldier to open up, the connection between them deepens beyond the professional facade she tries to maintain.
And as Leif begins to put down roots in her beloved hometown, Zoe realizes that maybe having him around is exactly what she needs to heal her own wounded heart as well.
Series: Snowberry Creek #2
Release Date: 01/07/14
Publisher: Signet Eclipse
Source: Publisher
Reviewer: Elizabeth
Rating:
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Reviewer’s Thoughts
This is my first Alexis Morgan read and it was exceptional. It was a little slow in the beginning but it quickly captured my attention. This is a powerful story of strength, pride, and perseverance. A story of second chances and the journey to heal physically as well as mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
Leif and Zoe meet at potluck dinner and danced to slow country songs in the backyard of a friend’s home. There is chemistry there but all too soon the couple parts for the night with a small hope for more. Leif gets a real surprise when he shows up for physical therapy and finds himself under the care of nurse practitioner, Zoe. As the two try to keep their relationship professional, running into each other at various places in the small town that is Snowberry Creek makes it impossible.
As attraction builds and their kisses get hotter, Zoe and Leif’s military pasts continue to haunt them causing physical strain and mental anguish from PTSD. Can these two continue their passionate affair or will past demons consume completely destroy any chance of happiness?
I loved watching the relationship develop between Leif and Zoe. Having both served in the Army, they understand each other’s struggles with returning to civilian life. Leif is a prideful man and he was often embarrassed by Zoe being aware of his physical limitations from his battle injury. This caused a lot of animosity and often heated outbursts between the couple. Knowing they respected one another and were quick to apologize really showed how much they cared and respected each other.
I loved the secondary story with Austin and that Callie and Leif wanted to give him a second chance to change his life. There are many second chances in this book and it was awesome to see that. In life, many people aren’t that forgiving so it’s refreshing to read about.
The PTSD scenes were tough to read. It’s always hard watching characters struggle especially watching soldiers who were on the front lines of war try to acclimate to life stateside. This is a beautiful story that I had the privilege to read. It really hits home about the reality of PTSD and the resources available for our troops. There are many victories in this book, not just the happily ever after. I highly recommend this book to everyone. It’s not just love that conquers all.
P.S. The teaser for the next book reveals the hero and you will not believe who it is! I will have a hard time waiting until May 2014 for its release!
