Maybell Parish inherits a neglected Appalachian estate from her great-aunt, only to discover she must share the property with Wesley Koehler, a groundskeeper with a distinct vision for the manor’s future. While Maybell dreams of turning the Victorian house into a welcoming retreat, the introverted Wesley prefers solitary restoration and strict order. To resolve their conflicting claims and financial hurdles, the two must cooperate on renovations, navigating their social anxieties and miscommunications through a series of shared chores and vulnerable conversations amidst the crumbling architecture.
Readers who appreciate the "grumpy-sunshine" dynamic and stories centered on neurodivergent experiences will find Wesley’s social anxiety and Maybell’s coping mechanisms relatable. The narrative focuses on building safety and trust between two people who usually feel out of place in the world. Anyone seeking a romance that avoids heavy external drama in favor of quiet emotional intimacy and mutual support will find a blueprint for how soft-spoken individuals negotiate boundaries and build a shared home.
Practical, clear-cut and escapist; an easy read.
Best for readers like The Escapist Adventurer. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 2021
- Language
- EN
