The One Who Risked it All

Second Chance Fire Station #4

by Tara Grace Ericson

Two weeks. One house. Zero chance their hearts come out unscathed.

Elijah Wells is trouble. He always has been. The kind of trouble that makes your heart race and your common sense disappear. Just ask all the girls in town throwing themselves at him. He broke my heart once—walked away like what we had meant nothing—and I swore I’d never let him get close enough to do it again.

I should’ve let him go a long time ago. He’s everything my family would hate—wild, reckless, and, worst of all, a Woods. The feud between our families has been going on for decades, and no good could ever come from crossing that line.

But now, thanks to his brother’s honeymoon, I’m stuck sharing a house with Eli for two weeks, chasing after three energetic boys and trying to pretend that old spark between us isn’t still burning. Two weeks of late nights, quiet conversations, and discovering a side of him I never expected.

He’s kind. Protective. He’s making it impossible to forget why I fell for him in the first place, or why I swore I’d never let him break my heart again.

But the way Eli looks at me makes me question everything. If we give in, we could lose everything. And yet, walking away from him this time might just break me for good. I'm just not sure I can be The One Who Risked it All.

Genres: Contemporary, Christian Romance, Romance, Christian Fiction, Christian

216 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 24, 2025

About the author

Tara Grace Ericson

faith, hope, and happily ever after

Tara writes small-town, contemporary Christian romance. She loves stories of modern-day characters struggling to obey God, forgive others, and accept themselves - oh, and finding their happily-ever-after along the way.

She lives in Southwest Missouri with her husband and two sons, writing full-time, in between chasing a two toddlers!

Get a free e-book by signing up for Tara's newsletter at her website!

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Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I’d like to think I’ve heard a thing or two about mistakes. The hardest part isn’t making them - it’s living with the knowledge that you didn’t have to.”

Despite being born of opposing families filled with hatred, the Putnams and the Wells learn the transformative power of love. Ericson shows us the duality inherent in love and hate. In one generation, a father’s love for his child planted seeds of hate. In the following generation, another father encourages hate to blossom, stomping out the potential for love and perpetuating the resentment. It takes two strong people from these opposing families and the threat of looming tragedy to give love a chance…and it makes all the difference in the world!

I loved the messages about:
💜 God’s timing; that it may be slower than we would hope but it’s never late.
💜 expectations and the damage they can do
💜 making mistakes
💜 second chances
💜 fraternizing with the enemy
💜 baggage; we all have enough of our own without being weighted down by ancient history

This second chance fire station romance spotlighting the power of love needs to be on your reading list!

[Tina Lowery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tara Grace Ericson wrote a story filled with heart and soul when she penned "The One Who Risked It All". Elijah (Eli) and Carla were faced with the anger, hatred and vicious sentiments when they fell in love during their highschool years. Although they both attempted to move on, their hearts couldn't and the emotions were buried deep. They realized that no matter what they attempted to calm the storm of their lives, their hearts had never let go.

I found within this book memories full of endless love, hope, and trust. In their present, with faith in their Savior, Eli and Carla followed the truth that could reunite two families whose bitterness and half-truths were keeping them apart. With love, Eli and Carla started breaking down the walls and rebuilding a friendship between their families to last more than a lifetime. I think that "The One Who Risked It All" deserves 5 stars as it had me truly laughing, crying and hoping for the truth to be finally set free. I was given this book to read for my honest thoughts and opinions about the story written within the cover. All opinions and thoughts above are my own.

[Kitty Elder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, we need to move to a 10 star rating scale because 5 stars just isn’t enough, This author’s books never disappoint! This is a sweet second-chance romance. A feud between their families tore them apart when they were in high school. But neither Carla nor Elijah ever got over it or were able to fall in love with someone else. When Elijah’s father has a heart attack they are thrown together again. Add in 3 rambunctious kids, prayer, and some simple stubbornness, and they are able to find their way forward together.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One Who Risked It All is book #4 in the Second Chance Fire books by Tara. Elijah and Carla were in love once until decades old family feud caused them to have to break apart and become collateral damage in the families issues. The two are throw back together by Carla’s best friend and Eli’s sister in law and husband when they go out of town. Will these two despite their families life changing decisions and feud caused them to drift even further or closer together?

I loved every bit of this sweet book. Tara does an excellent job incorporating faith in God in her books and I love this aspect of her books. Eli and Carla were both faced with doubts and questions but they continued to put their faith in God and what He says about them. Not determined what the enemy of the minds have to say.

Overall, definitely a 5 star ⭐️ review for me.

I received an advanced copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One Who Risked it All is the fourth installment in Tara Grace Ericson's Second Chance Fire Station series, and was a story that I had a hard time ever wanting to put down. It was easily recognizable to the reader that this author writes everything from the heart, and Eli and Carla's story was so much more than I ever could have expected.

While the faith element wasn't over the top and included in every chapter, it was authentically woven into the overall plot, and played a big part in how Eli and Carla are both finally able to come to terms with everything about their past and their future. As Eli's character is a bit of a goofball for a good portion of the story, this definitely still could have fallen under the cute contemporary heading, but it went so much further than that.

First falling for each other in high school, the relationship is banned by their prospective families over a longtime feud that feels reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet. Both families seem to carry a lot of grief and hurt over everything that happened, and this plot point added a serious tone to the story, along with the hurts that Eli carries over feeling like he can never measure up to his family's expectations.

It's actually been quite awhile since a book last affected me as much as this one did, and I had a hard time wanting to put it down and get back to real life. I was completely invested in these characters and their story, and loved the focus on second chances, healing, and God's never ending grace. The romance was sweet and swoon worthy while still tacking serious issues, and I can't possibly recommend it enough.

I can't wait to read more from this author in the future, and I'd definitely recommend this one to anyone who enjoys clean, faith based romances that deal with harsh circumstances.

Final Rating: 5/5.

Thanks so much to the author for allowing me to read and review this title!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the author as part of her ARC team. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Years ago, Eli's father insisted he break off his growing relationship with Carla due to the ancient feud between their families. He obeyed reluctantly out of a desire to please his dad, but has always regretted it. But when his brother goes off on a second honeymoon and the three kids end up in Eli's care, he needs help - and who better to give it but his sister-in-law's best friend, Carla. Spending time together is necessary but dangerous to any plans to maintain their long separation - but if they want more, they'll need to be willing to face the wrath of their families. Can they discover the cause of the feud and end it forever? Or is their relationship doomed again?

A charming second chance romance, which somewhat addresses the question of what honouring one's parents means in adulthood. I've been blessed with parents who would never make unreasonable requests so it's never been an issue - what I would do if my parents forbade me to have anything to do with the man I loved, and for a reason like a generations-old feud of which they wouldn't explain the origin, I don't know. Thankfully, Eli and Carla are able to make things right in the end, in a most satisfying way. I loved watching them interact in this long-awaited second chance, and rejoiced when they finally worked things out between them. I also appreciated the role that faith played in it all. All in all, an enjoyable and inspiring read and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series! Recommended

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

[Iola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firefighter Elijah Wells has always had a soft spot for middle school teacher Carla, ever since they were in high school. His father forbids him from having anything to do with Carla or her family—and Carla's father says the same thing.

But when Elijah's father has a heart attack, Elijah offers to look after his three nephews while his brother and sister-in-law are on vacation. Carla has also offered to help, and Elijah finds all the old feelings coming back as they spend time together.

Will the family feud keep them apart forever? Yes, The One Who Risked it All is a variation on the Romeo and Juliet story, but with no poison (well, this is a romance, not a tragedy. Readers expect an engagement or wedding, not a funeral.)

I felt for Elijah and his frustration over his father's unwilllingness to explain the origins of the feud, or to end it. And I felt for Carla and her realisation that she and Elijah can't have a future until he works out his issues with his father.

I found it a little frustrating that neither Elijah nor Carla disclosed the background behind the feud, until I realised they didn't actually know.

I loved the will-they-won't-they tension, and the way they both had to take action to get the ending they both wanted.

The One Who Risked it All is a fun small-town Christian romance, and I'm looking forward to the next story in the series.

Recommended for fans of forced proximity and small-town romances.

Thanks to the author for providing a free ebook for review.

[Angeline · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet book about second chances and forgiveness. The One Who Risked It All is the fourth book in Tara Grace Ericson’s Second Chance Fire Station series. The title definitely fit the book and it was such an enjoyable read.
I adored Elijah. He was such a sweet character. He had played the jokester most of his life but that was because he feared rejection and letting others down. Carla was also sweet. She was scared of getting her heart broken again but she also understood Eli. Both Eli and Carla had to learn to trust God as they navigated their relationship because of their family’s history. I loved how they truly knew each other and tried to support each other.
It was interesting to see how they would work things out and if they would be willing to risk it all for each other. I really like the faith and family aspects of this book. It was a little frustrating to see that Eli’s dad was so stubborn and didn’t seem to really see Eli. However I grew to understand his standing on Carla’s family more. I do feel like as a Christian though, he should have shown more grace to Eli and treated him better. I did like seeing Eli’s relationship with Nathan though.
I would recommend The One Who Risked It All to those who enjoy contemporary romances with hints of drama. The characters were engaging and the interactions were fun. The One Who Risked It All is a clean Christian contemporary romance.

Book Highlights:
Second chance romance
Romeo and juliet vibes
Teacher fmc
Firefighter mmc
Christian themes

I received a complimentary copy

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sweet second chance romance is a wonderful read. The two main characters, Eli and Carla, are easy to love and cheer on to a happily ever after. A feud between their families pulled them apart when they were in high school, each afraid to go against their family expectations. When they are both tasked with looking after three young boys while their parents are on their honeymoon, they can no longer avoid each other or their feelings. All the feelings that they thought were long buried resurface, the love and the fears, as well as the doubts. Are they strong enough this time to fight for their love and a future together despite what their families think or expect from them?

I loved the rapport and connection between Eli and Carla and that faith plays a strong role is their lives. For years they have put their families first, and let the feud between their families divide them. Now they can see that letting go of the past and all those negative thoughts and feelings is the only way to move forward. Eli has long carried the weight of his father’s expectations and disapproval. Carla and his brother finally make him see that he is a good man, a man who goes out of his well to help others, and that he needs to set aside that emotional burden. I liked that they both have people in their lives who support and encourage them to fight for their love and relationship. Their story is poignant, heartwarming and inspirational.

I will happily recommend this book.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One Who Risked It All is a story of a teenage crush that ended without reason and due to their family feud has kept Eli and Carla apart ever since high school.  Living in small town Minden, IN it had been hard not to run into each other over the years.  They both felt drawn to each other but out of respect for their parents have not dated again.  However, Carla is best friends with Rebecca, Eli’s sister-in-law.  After having some marital problems, Nathan and Rebecca has a vow renewal.  They go on a 2 week honeymoon and leave their 3 young boys with Nathan and Eli’s parents.  But, just after the trip starts the fire department is called to his parent’s home with his father having a heart attack.  Eli has no idea who else could help except Carla.  Carla takes the 3 boys back to their home to stay with them and Eli comes to help out with them when not on his shift at the fire station for the remainder of the vacation.  The shared closeness and caring for the 3 boys shows firefighter Eli’s softer side and teacher Carla’s ability to handle children.  They also still feel the love they have hid since high school and have decided to find out what the feud was about and if they could have a future together even if that means they have to give up their family.

[Brittany Searfoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this book comes fourth in a series, it can be read as a standalone novel without any confusion. The story takes place in a typical small town with a close-knit community. My heart broke for Eli and Carla as they tried to navigate their relationship in spite of their families' hatred for each other. While the Capulets vs. Montagues star-crossed romance storyline has been frequently used, I thought it was unique that "Romeo" was a firefighter and "Juliet" was a schoolteacher in this instance. Without giving away spoilers, I will mention that the reason behind the feud was particularly painful and unexpected. The resolution of the story was welcome indeed. I did want to see more faith elements included, but that is just my personal preference. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading contemporary inspirational romance. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for the author. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[Mimi · Rating 4 out of 5]

We get to hang out with Elijah... Elijah, who is trouble. Carla's heart was broken by him when they were younger, so they've kept their distance. Eli's brother just married her best friend (again), and Eli & Carla end up stuck together watching their kids while they go on their honeymoon.

Let me just say that this story ruffled my feathers! I was annoyed with Eli. I was mad at his father. I was upset that a past wrong was keeping Eli & Carla apart. I had lots of thoughts about Eli and how he behaved, but as I dove more into the story, I realized my frustration was misguided! I got that cleared up, but that meant Eli and Carla needed to as well!

As the two of them tried to help with his brothers kids, yet keep their distance, they only saw how much they truly cared for each other. But, how were they going to climb the obstacle wall of their family to have a future together? There was the rub. If you like a story where two people overcome their family's past to share their love, then this is the story for you!

I'm so excited to add this book to my T.G.E. bookshelf!

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carla and Elijah are such a sweet second chance romance story.

I enjoyed the Romeo and Juliet, forbidden love aspect to the story and I loved the forced proximity situation that brought Eli and Carla together again.

Seeing them grow back together as they cared for Nathan and Becca's kids was so sweet and I loved all three of the boys. I also really liked the little bit of mystery in what caused the family feud. Tara did a really nice job writing that family history into the story.

Overall, it was a quick but sweet read and I loved that the two of them were willing to risk the disappointment from their families in order to be together.

The only reason this wasn't 5 stars for me was that I felt like the two had the same conversation over and over which got repetitive. Also, I did not like that Eli's father never apologized to him for telling him that he was a disappointment. That was horrible and Eli (And I) deserved some closure from that fight.

[Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this one and thankfully the next one is out soon due to the teaser in that epilogue. This is sort of a loose retelling of Romeo and Juliet just without the fatality. Rival famines hate each other due to something that happened in the past but things change darn the trust comes to light . I loved Carla and Eli . They had always loved each other and had that special connection but stayed apart due to hatred each family had for another. When is father has a health problem and he watches the kid we get to see a new side to him. The nurturing fathering type who takes time out of his day to spend with the kids and helps find lost toys. This is a swoony christian romance with tons of heart and family centered with tidbits from the other books sprinkled without. It’s light on the faith if you want one not one the heavy side but even if you’re not a believer you can read these stories. All the fall and sweetness without the on page spice .

[Deena Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Family feuds make my stomach hurt. I suppose you could call it a trigger for me. So I struggled at first.

Until I fell in love with the characters. Until I fell in love with the story. Until I became a forever fan of Tara Grace Erickson (this is the first book I’ve read from her—how in the world did I not know how amazing she is?).

Carla is the kind of woman that you want to have as a best friend. I would love to sit and have coffee with her. And she’s so real it feels like it could happen!

Eli struck a chord in my heart. Trying to live up to expectations from a parent and always missing it by that much can be soul crushing.

These two are just the best, and I loved getting to know them. I loved almost every character—still unsure about the dads right now…you have to read to know why.

And you want to read. You really do. The end is so much in the feels and I sobbed, and I was so satisfied. Highly recommended!

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a Christian second chance romance book. It is book for in the Second Chance Fire Station series. The main characters are Elijah and Carla. Elijah is a firefighter and Carla is a teacher. They dated in high school and in love until Elijah ended things because of a family feud. Years have gone by and the feud is still going on. Elijah and Carla end up babysitting Elijah’s nephews together so they move in together while they do. Will they realize how much they still love each other? Will they let the feud keep them apart? Will they finally find out why the families are feuding and put an end to it? Normally I don’t like books with drama but this worked. I couldn’t stop reading this book once I started. I loved seeing how much they loved each other. How they never stopped despite all of the years that went by. I loved the epilogues and I can’t wait to read the next book.

[It's Sunrise Again · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One Who Risked It All is a sweet, small town, second chance romance.

The latest edition of the second chance fire station begins where the One Who Promised Forever leaves, so if you haven't read the earlier books in the series first, I would highly recommend it.

Eli and Carla are so much fun! add in Babysitting three boys under the ages of ten and all sorts of adventures are bound to happen! In between the lighthearted moments, however, there is a story of hope and reconciliation.

I love spending time in the fictional world of minden, and The One who risked it all is a fantastic story in its own right but also in the Mindenverse!

If you enjoy small town romance or books by then, I'm sure you'll love the One Who Risked it All.

I received an ARC from the author but wasn't required to leave a review.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The smile faded from my face as I turned my attention back to my plate, the weight of expectations settling once again on my shoulders. But as I risked one more glance at Carla, I knew that no matter how difficult things got, her presence, made it all worthwhile. Now, if I could just figure out how to navigate this minefield without blowing everything up in the process."

Eli and Carla tried to start dating back in high school. But his father was adamant about that not happening due to a longtime family feud, so he walked away. Now that many years have passed, Eli must admit that while he tried to move on, he could never forget Carla. When an opportunity presents itself for them to spend more time together, he knows he can't let a second chance pass. Can he convince Carla that their relationship really is worth the effort?

I was excited to read these characters' story as they were introduced in the last book. Eli's brother, Nathan, is the main male character in the author's book, The One Who Promised Forever. He is the fun uncle who does not seem to be ready to settle down. Yet even in that book, glimpses are provided into his life that show that he is more serious than anticipated. Carla is the main female character, Rebecca's best friend. So, the two have spent many years ignoring each other in close up situations. Their attraction has not faded.

The phrase (found in chapter 17) sums up this book: "our complicated past and an uncertain future" sums this book. How their relationship was so prolonged did puzzle me a bit as I was not quite certain why they let the situation drag out. What was needed was communication between hurt family members. Perhaps hearts needed to be softened before that could happen. Once the situation was explained, the animosity was a bit more understandable.

The nephews added a lot of excitement to the story. I did like all of the extra characters too. And the love story was sweet and memorable. I appreciate how the author emphasizes unconditional love.
This has been a great series.

I did read an early provided copy. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.

[Vandy Dodge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elijah and Carla story brings you all the way in. You will be totally invested in how things play out!
A Romeo and Juliet story with a much more positive solution. You have Family skeletons that come out in the story , Misunderstandings that have caused pain. an
Two people who are meant to be together. Little Boys, who bring joy and energy along the storyline, I love that they are a focus in this book.
The Main Characters are thrown into a situation where they are helping each other , family , friend & “ opposite sides”out in a ways they never expected.
The unrequited love 💜 that’s built up from both sides over the years makes you feel like you’re a part of the story.
The quotes I highlighted . Some are timeless.
Definitely take some time and enjoy reading this fascinating book 📕

[Megan | Reads Alotl Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoughts & Moments:
Second Chance
Family Feud
Romeo/Juliet Vibe
Firefighter
Rambunctious kids
Tension for days
Small Town
Grandma
Rakes vs Gentleman discussion

This story is a part of a series and the only one I’ve read so far. The Second Chance Fire Station is on my list. I love reading new authors and clean books! The Romeo/Juliet vibe was fun! Carla and Elijah had a lot of emotions and tension going on. They were so good to take care of Eli’s nephews together and there was a lot of fun with them. Both the characters had a lot to overcome and learn throughout this book to make things work, but they were sweet together and I had some good laughs.

Thank you Tara for the book!

[Lori R · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting Romeo and Juliet trope book.  Poor Eli was always trying to compete with his oldest brother and earn his dad's love but he never seemed to be able to do that in his dad's eyes.  Then he rekindled the love he had with Carla back in high school and Eli did not know what to do because this did not go over well with his father at all.  I enjoyed reading to find out about the  Wells/Putnam family feud and whether or not Eli and Carla would be able to move on and overcome the feud or if the feud would overcome them.  It was an interesting story with fun characters and cute firefighters.  I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Elizabeth Fiscus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eli and Carla were high school sweethearts who were forced apart by their feuding families. As they navigated their separate lives, they thought everything was okay...until they were back in the same circle as each other. Then how the sparks flew!! They knew what they had as teenagers was real and lasting! However, the animosity between their families was still very much present. It takes VERY strong people to stand up to their families to say enough is enough when it comes to decades of fighting. Through it all, they found a way to still respect their parents, yet let the truth be told, and discover what God had planned for them! I received an advance copy of this book from the author. That in no way influenced my review.

[Laura Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One Who Risked it All by Tara Grace Ericson is book 4 of the Second Chance Fire Station series. The Woods have had a long standing feud with the Putmans. Elijah Woods and Carla Putman were high school sweethearts, until the parents intervened.

Elijah has always felt as if he doesn’t measure up to his brother Nathan in his father’s eyes. He continually tries to win his approval. Carla is his sister in laws best friend and due to circumstances they are thrown together. Now they must decide if the feud or love wins

I’ve read all the books in this series so far and now anxiously await the next one..

[Courtney Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author, and what a delightful read! Even though I hadn’t read the first three in the series, I never felt lost, and I instantly fell for this second-chance romance filled with family feuds, firefighters, and faith.

I loved the messages woven throughout the story: God’s timing is never late, the weight of expectations, the power of second chances, and the baggage we all carry. Eli and the heroine had undeniable chemistry, and their journey of forgiveness and rediscovery was beautiful to watch unfold.

If you love small-town romance, heartfelt storytelling, and a dash of tension from forbidden love, this one’s for you! Now I can’t wait to go back and read the rest of the series. 💕

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One Who Risked It All is a Christian, small town, family feud, second chance, forced proximity romance. Those darling boys kept Carla and Elijah very busy. As Carla and Elijah care for his nephews, they rediscover the spark they shared in high school. The decades long, family feud that no one will discuss or explain is still in the way of their happiness. I enjoyed watching this couple fight for their relationship. They had to work hard to discover the reasons for the feud and the real truth behind it. You will have to read this well written book to see if Carla and Elijah can help mend their fractured families.

[Amy Petrowich · Rating 5 out of 5]

so much to love

I loved the idea of “Things aren’t always what they seem.”
I really enjoyed the mystery element behind the story. It was great to try to piece all the clues together. The big reveal was quite a surprise!
It was refreshing to see a couple fight for their love and still try to bring their families together.
Tara always puts a smile on my face with her characters. Her heroes are genuinely heroes. Men who put service and family above fame and money. I feel like I could be friends with these people and enjoy backyard barbecues with them.
I highly recommend this book, this entire series and all books written by this author.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me just say this - Tara Grace Ericson writes swoony heroes, sweet romances, and amazing storylines. The One Who Risked It All just might be one of my favorites from her. It's got everything you want and expect from a book by Ericson.

This story of second chances (of a sort) is well worth your time. I think you'll find yourself in love with Eli and Carla and everything that happens to them. They've got a lot to get through, but don't worry. Ericson keeps a good pace and the reader happy. Highly recommend adding this to your TBR!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Elijah Wells has never felt his father approved of him. When he has a heart attack, Eli and Carla Putnam worked together to watch his brother’s children while they were out of town. Eli and Carla had liked each other in high school, but both their fathers disapproved because of a family feud. As they work together they both realize they still have feelings for each other. This is an uplifting, faith filled book about second chances, family and making choices in life.

[Lucia Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful second chance story that you won’t want to put down. Eli and Carla have a most difficult journey to be together. A feud between their families that no one wants to talk about. Neither Eli nor Carla know what is behind this hatred between their families. Secrets control their lives and have kept them apart. Forgiveness and healing seem impossible. The characters are extremely well written and draw you right into their love and painful feelings. Love this series.
I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is good to be back in Minden with a new Tara Grace Ericson book. As I expected I got romance, humor, faith, problems, and a few surprises. The Capulets and Montagues have nothing on the Wells and Putnams, but at least no one dies. Eli and Carla have been caught in the family drama since they were teenagers without knowing what the feud’s about. Be ready for a roller coaster ride before you get answers. The sneak peak at the next book has me excited to watch Samantha and Evan’s story unfold.