by Robyn Carr
Part of Virgin River, book 3
First published 2007
Mike Valenzuela carries wounds from his time as both a decorated Marine reservist and LAPD officer. He comes to Virgin River seeking healing and accepts the job as the town's first police officer. Two divorces and countless relationships have left him yearning for the lasting love his Marine friends have discovered. Brie Sheridan arrives in Virgin River as a refugee from her own trauma. The Sacramento prosecutor nearly died at the hands of a violent criminal and now battles fears she cannot shake. When Mike and Brie meet, they recognize something familiar in each other. Both understand the weight of protecting others and serving justice. Mike sees past Brie's tough exterior to the woman struggling with painful memories. Brie sees the gentle strength beneath Mike's battle-scarred surface. As their relationship deepens, Mike commits himself to helping Brie overcome her fears and trust again. Their connection offers both a chance to heal old wounds and build something new together.
Genres: fiction, romance, contemporary-romance, military-romance
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, second-chance
Setting: Virgin River, LAPD, Sacramento
Period: contemporary
368 pages · Mass Market Paperback · MIRA
Content warnings: mental-illness