by Amber Smith
First published 2023
Eden starts college as her sexual assault case heads to trial. She and Josh broke up in high school when both carried hidden burdens. Eden survived a devastating rape she couldn't tell anyone about. Josh struggled with his alcoholic father. Now they reconnect as college freshmen. Their old connection resurfaces stronger than before. Eden has found the courage to speak out. She and two other girls have accused their rapist publicly. Josh has worked through his family trauma. They believe this time might be different. But college brings new pressures and complications. The trial looms over everything Eden does. She must relive her assault in court testimony. The legal process drags on for months. Josh wants to support her but doesn't always know how. Their relationship faces tests they never imagined. Can their love survive the chaos of their new lives and the crushing weight of seeking justice?
Genres: contemporary, contemporary-romance, new-adult, new-adult-romance
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, second-chance
Setting: College
Period: Contemporary
432 pages · Hardcover · Margaret K. McElderry Books
Content warnings: sexual-assault