A review by theeclecticreview
Falling Embers by Catherine Cowles

5.0

Catherine Cowles is a favorite author who pens beautiful and moving romantic suspense. Falling Embers is no exception. I fell in love with Tattered Stars and didn't hesitate to pick up book 2 of the series.

She'd been playing with fire hiding her private life from her family; now all hell's going to break loose.

This book is Hadley and Calder's story. They have loved each other forever, but circumstances veered their path and broke them apart. It's one terrifying moment, one life-changing instant when Calder realizes he cannot live without the only person who balances him and gives him peace. It's just that now he has to convince her to trust him again.

Hadley is an EMT and an adrenaline junky who loves the feel of freedom. Freedom to be herself. She learned to be alone from a family who didn't get her, and the man who walked away from her without a second glance. All Hadley wants is to live her life without feeling like she’s doing anything wrong. She hides the reckless part of herself to stay sane from her mother's disapproval and fear. Calder is a firefighter and he is such a great single dad. After a terrifying incident, he finally realizes that he pushed the only woman he loved away when she needed him most. Calder's work is cut out for him because Hadley doesn't want a broken heart again. But with the help of Calder's adorable twin girls, Sage and Birdie, and the support of Hadley's brother and friends, hope is on his side. Unfortunately, someone has it in for Hadley and is threatening her life. I had my guesses about who the culprit was but there are some surprising twists and turns that keep the story interesting.

Again, Hadley's family is a vital addition to this series. Hayes's protective instinct as the sheriff of Wolf Gap and Hadley's brother is crucial to helping Hadley. Haye's fiancee Everly's calm demeanor and kindness keep peace among the chaos. And Hadley's mother is so unlikeable when she demeans and crushes Hadley's feelings from the fear of her past. That relationship will need some work over time.

As in most Catherine Cowles stories, there is a deluge of emotions including laughter, angst, heartbreak, and suspense. If you love alluring characters, beautiful scenery, and a captivating plot, give this book a try.

Thank you to Ms. Cowles for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.