4.5 Stars!
Lost In You by new to me author Jules Bennett, is a terrific and well-conceived novel. It is a compelling read, replete with an entertaining plot, nicely-defined characters, and a complicated romance. This story takes place in the small town of Haven, Georgia, and the down to earth Monroe family truly exudes goodness and the importance of being together. This is the third book in The Monroes series, and it can be truly enjoyed as a standalone.
Macy Hayword owns and runs the hardware store that has been a part of her family for generations. Macy has a huge heart and loves her father very much. During college, she suffered through a couple of extremely traumatic events, which changed her life forever. She loves children and has recently been approved to be a foster mother. Macy has a lot on her plate and believes she will never find a forever love. Then chef and quasi childhood friend Liam Monroe returns to town, and Macy still feels a tremendous attraction from years gone by.
Liam is back in Haven to help his brothers bring their late sister's dream of running a first-class women's spa to fruition. Liam is not only a partner, he also cooks the delicious food that all the guests devour. Because he wants to return to Atlanta and run his own restaurant in the near future, he temporarily resides in Macy's former apartment, which is located on the second floor of her hardware store. Liam lost his mom at the tender age of ten, and spent some horrendous time in the foster care system until the Monroes adopted him. Macy's presence in his life stirs up feelings he promised himself he would never experience again.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the way Ms. Bennett evolved Macy and Liam's relationship; with tenderness, desire and a bit of discovery. This story flowed effortlessly from start to finish, and I did not want it to end. If you are looking for a contemporary romance with the perfect balance of sweetness and heat, an engaging plot, and a happily ever after, then read this book. This is a well-written novel about courage and love, that twists and turns in all the right places.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.