Sunsets & Slow Dances

Firefly Island: Southern Nights #4

by Melanie Shawn

Single and sexy schoolteacher Nadia Carson spent the better part of the last decade searching for Mr. Right, and all she had to show for it was a trail of bad decisions, a drained bank account, and one hallucination. After waking up alone on New Year’s Day hungover and haunted by the sighting of the ghost of exes past, Nadia decided it was time to make some changes. Her pursuit to find love had driven her to the point where she was actually “seeing” her ex like a mirage in the desert. She needed to give up everything that contributed to her delusion.

She was going cold turkey. No more booze and no more boys. She was taking a break from the relationship rat race. She was going on a dick detox. A carnal knowledge cleanse.

The only man who could possibly tempt her to break her resolution is the man who inspired her to create it.

Single dad and MMA champion Callum Knight never got over his first love. Time, distance, and even an engagement to someone else never changed the feelings he had for the girl he met on the pier and gave his Big League chewing gum to. After getting his heart broken, Callum spent ten years with blinders on, only looking to the future, until he got a call that forced him to face his past.

When he returned to his hometown to become the legal guardian of his thirteen-year-old half-sister, Callum’s past kept showing up in surprising places…like his son’s first-grade teacher.

Sunsets & Slow Dances is a second chance, single dad, found family, sworn-off relationships, MMA fighter, sassy FMC, slow burn reunion, small town romance with lots of heart, humor, and heat.

Genres: Romance, Sports, Second Chance, Amazon

410 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 29, 2025

About the author

NEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY bestselling author Melanie Shawn writes HEAs filled with sweet and sassy heroines, heroes who are cinnamon rolls in the streets alpho-holes in the sheets, casts of supportive *cough: meddling* friends and family who put the fun in funny, toe-curling combustible heat, and sugary sweet “aww” moments that will have your hearts and e-readers melting.

Reviews

[Susanne Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing end to this series. I’ve loved every minute of being in Firefly and all the great people I’ve met along the way. Nadia and Callum are a kismet couple, they were always meant to be together, they just had to wait for the right time.

There was so much going on in this book, it was more than just Callum and Nadia navigating their feelings for one another, their families played a big role. Nadia’s mom heavily influenced her actions 10 years ago, and the back story that unravels about why she made those choices was emotional. Then we have the back story of Nora, Callum’s mom and my oh my I had tears in my eyes.

With some super sizzling spicy scenes, Callum and Nadia will steam up your kindle. Amazing! I can’t wait for a new series and see who we get to meet next.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed Nadia and Callum’s story very much. Their struggle to fine each other was shadowed by their past parental relationships and how that affected their mindset and Nadia’s ability to handle emotions. The only thing I find a
little frustrating is the numerous references to movies, characters, etc. I think it is overdone and often takes away from the real script of the story. ☹️ However, you can still enjoy the funny and light hearted story and steamy chemistry. 🥰

[Aleda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute, HEA romance with no crazy drama or unknowns or anything like that.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sunsets & Slow Dances is the fourth book in the Southern Nights series and it is another great addition!

Nadia Cohen and Callum Knight were childhood sweethearts who had plans for their future, but life had different ideas. A decade ago, Callum made an assumption about something he saw and in order to save Callum from deviating from his plan of leaving their hometown, she didn't correct him. Now Nadia learns that Callum has returned to Firefly Island to be the guardian of his 13 year-old half sister.

While Nadia and Callum have been apart for many years, both of them still carry strong feelings for the other. Both of their circumstances are different than they were when they split years ago, but is there a way for them to find their way back to one another? The chemistry is certainly still there, but there are other challenges that they must overcome. Can they do it?

Callum was such a great character. He had his priorities in line and knew what he needed to do for his family even though it was not always easy. He was understanding, loyal and just a great guy. I really liked Nadia as well, as she was always trying to do the right thing when it came to her students and how she handled things with her family. I also really enjoyed the other secondary characters who brought so much to the story as well.

This was a great way to end this series!

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Nadia and Callum’s second chance love story in Sunsets & Slow Dances by Melanie Shawn, book four in the Firefly Island: Southern Nights series; a heartwarming story with uncovering secrets, and a single dad. Callum Knight and Nadia Carson were childhood sweethearts, continuing to be together through high school and college. Unfortunately life had different plans for them, as they separated and lived on opposite coasts. It has been ten years since they last were together, and fate has given them a second chance. Callum is back in Firefly Island with his six-year old son, after being named guardian of his thirteen-year old half-sister, after the death of her mother. Secrets, lost love and bad circumstance originally pulled these two apart, but when Callum comes home the secrets slowly are revealed. With their paths constantly crossing and despite being apart for years, their feelings for each other are as strong as ever if not stronger than before. It will not be an easy journey to finding their way together as obstacles keep popping up along their path. What a wonderful, heartwarming story that is heart breaking at the same time. It was so much fun catching up with characters from previous stories. With this being the last book in this series, I hope there will be a spin off.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a good romance that touched my heart so many times. Nadia and Callum had such a wonderful love story through high school and college. Callum was the kind of man any woman would love to have. He was such a patient man and loved so hard, that he didn’t let any of some of the silly things Nadia did at times upset him. He was so dependable and would protect the people he loved. Unfortunately Nadia had a hard upbringing and a mother did not show her much love. But Nadia had love in her that when her mother was sick, Nadia did something to Callum so she could take care of her mother and not have Callum give up his future to stay on firefly island with Nadia. It broke both Nadia and Callum’s hearts for years. It was hard for both of them when Callum had to come back to Firefly Island ten years later as he was named guardian to his half sister. That was a whole other story you will read about. Callum had a six year old son that he took good care of as his son’s mother was off all the time being an influencer. There were so many ghosts to face, Callum to find out how to take care of his rebellious thirteen year old half sister, emotions to face, and plans to make for the future. This story is so touching that I strongly encourage you to read the book.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This latest addition to the series belongs to Nadia Carson and her former boyfriend Callum Knight.
Ten years ago, Nadia didn’t correct Callum on a supposition he made. All so he could follow his dreams.
Nowadays, Nadia is a first grade school teacher who has decided her New Year’s resolution will be the three Ds. Will means she will not be dating anyone. Little does she know, that will change.
Callum is back in town with his six year old boy, after being appointed guardian to his 13 year old sister. He left his MMA career to take care of his son, as his “girlfriend” was more interested in herself than her sweet boy.
When these two see each other again, it’s evident that the sparks are still there. But the past and the present presents many obstacles.
Still, can they get a second chance in love and life?
Once again , this talented author delivers a story that will touch your hearts . You will be routing for them to finally HEA.
The plot was engaging from the first page to the last. The characters were perfect in their imperfections and we get a chance to “see” how characters of previous stories in the series are doing.
Another winner in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nadia and Callum were childhood sweethearts. 10 years later they meet after tragedy strikes Callum's family again. The connection between these two characters is insanely potent and leaves you rooting for them the entire book. The chemistry is hot and the interactions speak louder than any other character set I have read in a long time.

Nadia finally got her happy ending after years of seeing everyone else get theirs. I loved this book.

[Lillian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable second chance romance

This was an enjoyable read. A second chance romance with their one true love. They were childhood friends and a couple in teenage years. She broke his heart to give him a better life. He never really got over her. Strange circumstances bring him back to his hometown that he thought he hated. She's taking a relationship, drinking, dating sabbatical. She becomes his son's teacher. This all brings them closer.
Wonderful storyline. Great characters. Small town interactions and more.

[Sherri Babb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Callum and Nadia are being a second chance. I have been waiting for their book and it did not disappoint. From the moment I picked it up I was drawn into their story. They have so much chemistry between them and from the beginning I was rooting for them. The question is would they be able to move on from their past and start a future together. Their book was an incredible read. It was entertaining, funny, it was frustrating but it is definitely a book you do not want to miss. Highly recommend not only this book but the whole series. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Mary Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this Series

Every one of the books in this series is great! This is Nadia & Callum’s story, middle & high school sweethearts who lost their way, only to be reunited 10 years later. Throw in Callum’s son, mom & granddad as well as Nadia’s animals and girlfriends, and you’ve got a great story of these two finding their way back to each other.

[Roe Quinajon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a sucker for second chances. Nadia & Callum’s story did not disappoint. There were a few times Nadia annoyed me with her, I’m doing this for his own good mantra, but all in all, I did enjoy the book. And you can’t go wrong with Peanut, Butter & Jelly!

[Argie · Rating 5 out of 5]

sunsets and slow dances

This is a second chance single father romance. Callum and Nadia were childhood sweethearts until life and circumstances tore them apart. Fast forward 10 years, Callum is back in Firefly island for the first time in 10 years to be his half sister’s guardian. Nadia is still in Firefly as his son’s new first grade teacher. Fate keeps throwing them together and the sparks are lighting fires between them. Love the story and the growth of the characters

[Michelle Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this journey for them 😋

Fun, hopeful, carefree, full of zest, passion, desire and pure hotness! Funny, intelligent, unique and full of promise. Loved it!

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great trip to Firefly Island. Great backdrop and great cast of characters. Loved Callum and Nadia's second chance.

[Tracy Flick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sunsets and Slow Dances is a great second chance romance. Nadia and Callum were childhood sweethearts. Years later, Callum returns to his hometown, and the sparks are still there after 10 years. The chemistry between Nadia and Callum is steamy. You can't help but root for them.

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second chance for Nadia and Callum. They had a quite dysfunctional relationship 10 years ago. Callum’s mom was amazing. I can’t imagine how she dealt with her past. Chloe was a sweet teen. I’m glad she had Callum for a big brother. Firefly Island has the best residents!

[Diane DiMarcello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series

This book brings different life challenges of all the characters woven together to make a beautiful story. This series is amazing and so well written!

[Michelle Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the ultimate second chance romance, in my opinion. I so loved how this story started and finding out that what or should I say who she hallucinated about was actually accurate, in the flesh hottie Callum Knight and to be more specific her ex and childhood sweetheart. I always appreciate the scenes with Nadia and the ladies and the first meet up with Callum and Nadia at the school, what an awkward first meet up after almost ten years would be. I knew it was just a matter of time that she broke her new years resolutions but who wouldn’t break one or all for Callum. I enjoyed Nadia and Amos and their friendship, and I also liked that we found out a lot about why these two ‘broke-up’ if you’d call it that and some major misconceptions were cleared up. I have to say his ex is a piece of work and that is the only nice thing I can say there. I’m glad she finally got the memo that it’s over never to be rekindled. I especially loved it while you are reading along, and the title of the story comes along as you are reading and just major swoon. This is a wonderful book and the epilogue in true Melanie Shawn fashion, perfection with a cherry on top! Wondering what series, characters or location will be heading our way next.

[Urvashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Callum Knight and Nadia Carson were childhood sweethearts - madly in love with each other. But life had some different plans for them, and they separated. It’s been 10years since they last met, and fate has given them a second chance. Callum is back in Firefly Island, and their paths keep crossing. Their feelings for each other are still as strong as ever if not stronger, but they still need to find their way to HEA.
This is one of the best second chance romances I have read. Nadia and Callum love was so effortless that even though they met after 10 years it was like no time has passed - truly swoon worthy.
I also enjoyed catching up with the characters from previous books and attend Zoe and Miles wedding 💕.
I absolutely loved reading this book and the series and am kinda sad to know this is the last book in Firefly Island: Southern Nights series. I hope we get a spin off.

[Felicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes we do things for those we love in order to "protect them" from life situations that we don’t want to derail them. That is what Nadia did when she broke up with Callum "for his own good" 10 years ago. Since then, neither of them have found another individual who quite completes them the same way as their first love. While Callum had a child with another woman who he was engaged to for seven years, he never quite forgot Nadia, even having her tattooed on his skin. When he comes back to Firefly Island to take care of his half sister, they are thrown together and realize that their love has never waived. Dealing with fiancés, family, and other obstacles, they must find their way back to each other. But a friendship and love like theirs is too strong to not overcome all the odds. I loved this book.

[Kari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sunsets & Slow Dances is the fourth novel in the Firefly Island: Southern Nights series by Melanie Shawn. It follows Nadia and her second chance at her happily ever after!

I love the Firefly Island world and series! Nadia feels like the last one left. Everyone else is paired up with their other halves, and she is deciding that her New Years resolution is the three D's.

Callum is back in Firefly under very unique circumstances, and being back may be a blessing in disguise.

I love Nadia's personality. She's strong-willed and knows what she wants! Callum is the quentisental good guy. He tries to do right by everyone in his life, and coming back to Firefly Island is no exception. I loved their chemistry and didn't want to put their story down!

[Kim · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sometimes I wonder why authors don’t keep a white board out to keep track of their series details so they don’t flub them up from book to book.
Like the age difference between Zoe and Miles. She was in her 28th year when she met Miles, who was 26 according to the book. NOT eight years apart like this book declared.
Speaking of this book, being the last of the series I had hoped for a better wrap up. We didn’t even get to see how Callum’s fight went, or to see his and Nadia’s HEA future.
I was still laughing at the harlequin bodice ripper sex scenes. ‘His throbbing member’ or ‘her feminine folds’ lol

[Tina Buchberger Oase · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to Firefly Island!
This is the story of Nadia, Callum, and second chances.
Their relationship started when they were young, 12 and 13. Throughout their relationship, there were always off and on. But they always remained the other half of the other.
About 10 years ago, Callum left Firefly and they finally had their distance. He suddenly gets custody his sister and returns home instead of uprooting her life.
Everywhere he looks, all he sees is Nadia and memories of them. She thinks she is seeing things and doesn't believe he is there.
The sparks start to fly again and they both feel it. Will they allow this feeling to grow and return to being better together?

[Patti · Rating 5 out of 5]

They definitely saved the best couple for last!! Childhood sweethearts Callum and Nadia reunite 10 years after their split and have a second chance at love!! Secrets, lost love and bad circumstance pulled these two apart but when Callum comes home the secrets slowly are revealed!! Very emotional book that will have you rooting for this couple!! Family, friends and the small community try to help this couple become a family and finally get their HEA!! A must read book that will have you in tears and also loving this couple and this family!! A fabulous conclusion to this fabulous series!!

[Linn Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt this story! I love the characters, their chemistry is off the charts and there are so many amazing side characters. Chloe, Nora and Amos are all brilliant, just to mention a few.

Callum and Nora have a long history. Love and loss, immature drama and selflessness. Their journey back to each other and figuring out what form that will take, is captivating and sweet. A little drama and a lot of pent up love and longing. I really loved how the story unfolds, how it all fits together. And the ending was so very fitting. In the best way.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful second chance romance. Main characters are multidimensional and realistically flawed. Some supporting characters are purposefully shallow yet realistic, especially in the social media influencer personas. It has secrets, lies of omission, super steamy chemistry, examples of poor parenting as well as the best parenting, and forever friends. Love this little town of Firefly. It might be time to reread the series, I always find many small details connect together and get a much better picture of how all of the characters fit together.

[Laurie Louis · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read from this author. I couldn't put the book down. Callum and Nadia definitely make a great couple and it's always fun to see couples make their way back to each other. It leaves you believing in a HEA.

One of the things I really enjoyed in this series along with the main characters are the children and Matty and Chloe definitely don't disappoint.

Definitely a book to add to your reading list.

[C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Callum and Nadia's small town second chance romance was a great read. Nadia has spent years looking for Mr Right and no one ever lived up to her first love, Callum. Callum is back in his hometown unexpectedly and has missed his best friend Nadia for years. Their instant connection when they see each other again makes for a great read and I was disappointed when it was over even though I loved the way it ended!

[Brandi Sartin lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nadia and Callum were a couple for a long time they had a plan for after high school. That time came and things changed and that was the end of the relationship. Fast forward a few years and Callum is back in town to help care for his sister. What he wasn’t expecting was Nadia to be there too. They both still have feelings for each other. Nadia wants to ignore them while Callum wants to see what happens. But there is a lot in the way-his son, his sister, where to stay, and an ex.