Beth was constantly on the move, separating herself from her parents who she viewed as smothering. As the only child, they doted on her. As soon as she could escape, she did. She didn't value relationships or belongings -- just her independence.

Paulie Reed's demeaning relationship with her parents and distaste for their lifestyle forced her to create a new identity so she could live her own life her way. In doing that, she walked out on her wedding leaving a confused and surprisingly hurt groom behind.

Both Beth and Paulie found themselves in Kevin Kowalski's bar. Paulie works for him. Beth catches Kevin's eye. He thinks she is a looker and his natural instincts as an ex-cop and good guy kicked in when her date turned into a rather abusive and nasty drunk. Her date turned out to be her boss who summarily fired her on the spot. Not an auspicious beginning.

Beth was unimpressed with this chick magnet bartender who collected phone numbers on cocktail napkins. Two days later, Beth is bartender at Kevin's brothers wedding and, as annoyed as she is to see him, she can't deny the fact that he has been on her mind. She can't envision any kind of relationship with the napkin collector, but something got to her as she watched his interaction with his big affectionate family. So, after spending an evening fighting this attraction, Beth throws caution to the wind and agrees to spend the night. But in the light of day, she is once more reminded of her vow to not be a number on a napkin and leaves.

Soon, Beth discovers she is pregnant and now has some seriously life altering decisions to make. Her nomadic life wouldn't work with a baby and she was in a mess -- no real home or job to speak of and she was alone. Her parents would help but their micromanaging was the root of her life style. The only person she could turn to was Kevin and she was totally unprepared for his reaction to her news. You see the Kowalski's were this boisterous, welcoming, unassuming, and generous-to-a-fault family and Kevin was determined that Beth and his child be part of it. But the plan didn't include any sort of relationship between Beth and Kevin.

Kevin wanted more than just friendship and hoped that, with time and patience, Beth would want more too. But Beth was frightened by the feelings that were developing and was determined to safeguard her heart at all costs. Would patience prevail? Would the love and a good example of a family that works give Beth the courage to take a chance?

Loved it! This book by Stacey is a page turner that immediately captures your attention and heart with its wit and warmth and doesn't miss a beat as the story reaches a very satisfying and entertaining conclusion. This is one you will truly enjoy.

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