Frenemies with Benefits

Former frenemies agree to a friends-with-benefits arrangement in Williams’s high-drama third Peachtree Cove contemporary (after Waiting for Friday Night). Since Peachtree Cove, Ga., won a best small-town award, business at Tracey Thompson’s bed and breakfast has been booming. Though the hype boosted her bottom line, Tracey prefers to stay under the radar, having grown up as the talk of the town due to her parents’ many scandals. But when her husband cheats with and impregnates Tracey’s assistant, she’s pulled back into the rumor mill. To make matters worse, it’s Brian Nelson, Tracey’s judgmental high school frenemy and current flower supplier, who uncovers the affair and breaks the news. Tracey’s friends encourage her to prioritize herself while waiting for the divorce to be finalized, so she looks for a lover—and she’s shocked when Brian volunteers, hoping to explore his long-held crush. Then Brian’s ex-wife returns, claiming her child is his, and Tracey finds herself facing yet another scandal. Is her budding romance with Brian worth the risk? Williams ramps up the familial drama, adding tension to the heartwarming romance, and Brian’s gentleness postdivorce is especially endearing. Series fans will be pleased. Agent: Tricia Skinner, Foreword Literary. (Feb.)