Always

Jio’s (Goodnight June) newest novel explores intersections of past and present and the complexities of love. Kailey Crane, a journalist at the Seattle Herald, is happily engaged and looking forward to her future when she has encounters a homeless man she recognizes as Cade, the man she once called the love of her life. Alternating between 2008 and a decade earlier, the narrative details Kailey’s relationship with Cade and her present life with her fiancé, Ryan. When Kailey realizes that Cade does not remember who he is or what happened to him, she embarks on a quest to help him find out. She must confront her own past as she tries to figure out what she really wants. The story is most compelling when exploring Kailey’s internal conflict, though her choice between the two men is made too easy. And though the mystery surrounding Cade ultimately seems underdeveloped, fans of Jio’s work will still find her signature emotional depth. (Feb.)