The True Love Bookshop

A widow’s slow burning second chance at love pairs nicely with a gripping mystery in Rains’s sweet third Somerset Lake contemporary romance (after The Christmas Village). River Harrison fell in love with bookstore owner Tess Lane at first sight years ago, but shortly after meeting her, learned that she was dating his best friend and fellow marine, Jared. Jared and Tess eventually married while Jared and River’s friendship splintered. Three years after Jared died under mysterious circumstances, Tess is unexpectedly reunited with River, now a private investigator, and she hires him to do some digging. Tess goes along for the ride, and their long-buried mutual attraction resurfaces. As Tess and River both grapple with guilt and confusion over their budding romance, secrets about Jared’s life, death, and marriage to Tess are revealed. Rains has a light, tasteful touch with hard truths, and her swoonworthy hero would heal any broken heart. The strength of River and Tess’s bond and the intensity of their chemistry make a familiar trope feel fresh. Series readers will be especially delighted to revisit the charming small town of Somerset Lake and check in with its colorful residents, from faithful friends to nosy neighbors. This is a treat. Agent: Sarah Younger, Nancy Yost Literary. (July)