The Name Curse

Burroughs (The Marriage Code) drops wounded souls into a beautifully described wilderness in this heartfelt if predictable tale. When workaholic Bernie Purcell is forced to take some vacation time, her mother purchases her an Alaskan hiking trip in hopes Bernie might embrace the spirit of her globe-trotting great-aunt namesake. Sitcom writer Matthew Hildebrandt signs up for the same trip to clear his mind and recharge creatively. A paperwork snafu puts Bernie and Matthew together as hiking buddies who are responsible for each other’s safety as they climb Denali—and must share a tent. Their partnership starts off rocky thanks to conflicting personalities and Bernie’s inexperience in the wild, but the longer they spend together, the closer they become. When an accident cuts the trip short, the two seize the opportunity to explore their newfound relationship, their respective traumas, and their dreams for the future. Burroughs hits all the expected beats in satisfying fashion, with Bernie’s outdoorsy mishaps and Matthew’s grumpiness providing ample comic moments as their mutual attraction and emotional connection grow. This hike toward happily-ever-after is mild but undeniably charming. Agent: Kimberly Brower, Brower Literary. (Aug.)