This was a heartwarming story filled with tropes I love, particularly enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity. The romance is a true slow burn, as the FMC and MMC take their time opening up, even just to form a friendship. But the constant back and forth kept me hooked, eager to see how they would fall for each other. I also adored the well-meaning matchmaking and the kindness the community showed to the new innkeeper and his daughter.
In the story, Molly has been helping at the Amish Inn for quite a while. But when the owner gets injured, she calls in her nephew Aaron to take over management, essentially making him Molly's new boss. While she tries not to take it personally that the position she expected to have is given to him, she decides to support him. More importantly, she decides to help his shy, anxious daughter adjust to the move. The sweet girl takes to Molly, and Molly feels drawn to care for her. However, Aaron is far from pleased with her involvement, and they constantly clash... with how the inn is ran, and her closeness to his daughter. Everytime they make progress, something pulls them back into tension. Aaron struggles with the community's efforts to push him and Molly together. Even his daughter adores Molly, but Aaron has sworn off love and marriage after losing his wife. He firmly rejects any suggestions of a relationship. But when Molly's ex-fiancé, Will, reenters the picture, Aaron begins to question his resolve... is it too late? Molly once loved Will, did she still love him?
This was such a sweet story! The romance, though slow-paced, was so well-written that I never felt bored. In fact, I looked forward to every lingering glance, touch, and moment of connection between them. Now, I definitely need to read more from Marta!
I purchased the paperback of this book, but the audio was provided complimentary from the publisher. This review reflects my honest opinion.