A Promise of Forever

Pappano blends a realistic vision of returning soldiers with a tender love story in her low-key fourth Tallgrass contemporary (after A Love to Call Her Own). After five tours in the war zones of Iraq and Afghanistan, Sgt. First Class Avi Grant is more than ready to focus on her future, which includes a safer post stateside. But first, she has a sad duty to complete: visiting the widow of her beloved mentor, Col. George Sanderson, in Tallgrass, Okla. Avi is still carrying a heavy load of survivor’s guilt when she meets George’s stepson, Dr. Ben Noble. The sexy surgeon has no intention of falling for a career soldier, especially since he never forgave George for whisking his mother away from her children and first husband. As Avi and Ben fall hard and fast, they’re up against two immovable deadlines: Avi’s month of leave, which will end with her taking up a teaching post in Georgia, and the years left on her enlistment. With her trademark blend of the heartbreaking and heartwarming, Pappano skillfully helps Avi and Ben overcome their respective fears, providing hints of future couples along the way. (July)