This is the second book in the series A Cape end but it reads fine as a stand alone novel. It’s the story of Darcy, a single-mother of an 8 year-old boy and Emerson, a single artist and photographer. As their attraction develops, so does Darcy’s reluctance to open up to a relationship that could potentially expose her son Liam and herself to a heartbreak. Darcy decides to keep Emerson at arm’s length but everything backfires when her son and Emerson become friends. Will Darcy see through her own fears and overprotective instincts to welcome Emerson to their lives?

The story has an interesting potential and, generally speaking, the book is well written. Unfortunately, for me it wasn’t enough to enjoy it or to move me emotionally. Why? A big part of this is due to the way Ms. Rey presents her main characters. As a mother of an 8 year-old boy myself, I understand Darcy’s protection instincts but I was annoyed with her obsession to control their emotions. Additionally, the events of the last few chapters are a big change of heart for the character and feels a bit unrealistic. Emerson, on the other hand, is portrayed as an stoic glorious butch who develops a rather fast attachment to Darcy and Liam, probably due to her own family history. Emerson is believable and definitely more likeable, so much so that in some parts I wanted her to run away from Darcy. Not a very good feeling when reading a romance. However, the intimate scenes describe all the chemistry that is absent outside the bed. But the transition from casual to committed relationship just didn’t work for me.

Overall, 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. An ok read.

ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.