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I came back to Esperance, NC, my life in ruins, drowning in debt, desperately needing to make up for my mistakes. I want to sweep the cobwebs from my great Aunt’s old house, not be swept off my feet. Then I fall (literally) into the arms of the handyman I’ve hired to help me fix up the house.

Matt Cooper is undeniably hot. The way he moves, the way his eyes pierce me, the way his lips feel on mine.
I know I can’t afford to trust anyone again; I’ve been down that road before and too many people got hurt. It’s why I’m in this mess in the first place.

But I can take the no strings attached, sizzling hot sex Matt offers, knowing it’ll be over when I sell the house and leave town.

All I have to do is not fall in love with him in the meantime. Easy, right?

295 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2024

172 people are currently reading
703 people want to read

About the author

Mary Waterford

26 books133 followers

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5 stars
62 (29%)
4 stars
84 (39%)
3 stars
55 (25%)
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7 (3%)
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5 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Kay LeBlanc.
76 reviews
December 6, 2025
So many feels. You must read it!

Wow, boy do I relate to this book and her un-motherly situation. Wanting someone to love is a horrible situation. You try to protect yourself. You think you must be the problem. You can't trust yourself. This story is a reflection of how powerful true love can feel, and it can be real. Just read and believe.
10 reviews
February 10, 2023
I loved this story, which is saying something because I don't generally prefer 1st person POV. The chemistry between these two was hot, but it was still sweet how they fell in love. I'm really looking forward to the next in series.
19 reviews1 follower
September 19, 2023
Come on, who doesn't love a hot builder who's good with his hands. These 2 were super cute and I loved how Zara overcame her past to find the love she deserved and her HEA with Matt.
Profile Image for Haney Hayes Promotions.
1,482 reviews68 followers
October 2, 2024
This is a perfect fit for readers who crave a lighthearted, feel-good romance with a strong focus on second chances, self-discovery, and the thrill of a slow-burning, passionate connection.
Profile Image for dee.
35 reviews
November 2, 2025
It cured my insomnia! so there’s that I guess!!!
Profile Image for Alisha.
6 reviews
December 23, 2025
Dreamy…

This was a great read. From where they both started to where they got to, it was lovely. I would like to have choice words with the woman who birthed her though.
3 reviews
July 25, 2023
Sweet & Hot Emotional Read

Loved this first book in the Esperance Valley series 💕💕 Can’t wait to read the rest . 😀❤️ Thank you 🙏
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews

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