The Second First Chance

A resolute young woman strives to be a firefighter despite objections from family, friends, and the man she might love, in this touching romance from Shroff (Then There Was You). Veterinarian Dhillon Vora is the first to learn that his childhood best friend, neighbor, and former love interest, Riya Desai, has become a firefighter, leaving him scared and angry. Both Dhillon and Riya are haunted by the fire that killed Dhillon’s father and Riya’s older brother, and Dhillon can’t understand how Riya could choose to run toward the flames. Indeed, Riya’s PTSD and frequent flashbacks to the tragedy threaten her success in her chosen profession. Shroff tenderly conveys the complexities of familial relationships, the lingering effects of trauma, and the thorny road to healing, without ever letting things get too heavy. Riya makes for an appealing heroine as she navigates her resurfacing feelings for Dhillon, sexism in a male-dominated field, and her mother’s efforts to marry her off. Striking a perfect balance between drama and romance, this is sure to please. [em]Agent: Rachel Brooks, BookEnds. (Aug.) [/em]