Now, before you read this review, refer to my review of the first book to understand this better: (if you haven't read the duet) It ends on a cliffhanger and the whole event is very traumatic. I still haven't been able to start the sequel. It broke my heart.

Thayer, the brooding and enigmatic hero, is a character who leaves an indelible mark on the reader’s heart. While we don’t get his point of view in this book, his actions speak volumes. Thayer’s journey from a closed-off and emotionally scarred man to someone who finds solace and purpose in Salem’s presence is beautifully depicted. His affectionate and caring nature, particularly towards his son, tugs at the heartstrings and makes him an endearing character, despite his flaws.On either side the wild roses, their pink dewy faces turned to the sun, tumbled over the fences, sprawled on the ground and filled the air with their pure summery smell.” Falling for someone almost fifteen years older than me wasn’t part of my plans, but sometimes things happen when you least expect them. I mean, the man raised her child, doesn't want to separate from her, and understandably wants to maintain a connection with her for a little longer. And that's too much to ask? I feel like this story is like a failed meal…no matter how much spice you add, it still tastes bland.

Fast forward six years later, Salem's mother's cancer resurfaces, prompting Salem to return to her hometown. There, she reconnects with Thayer, who asks her out on a date. Salem agrees, and a few weeks later, they decide to move in together. As time goes by, Salem and Thayer contemplate having more children and eventually get married. To ensure that Caleb remains involved in Seda's life, he moves in next door, occupying Salem's deceased mother's home. This arrangement was Caleb's idea, as Salem isn't particularly concerned about potentially separating Caleb and Seda in the pursuit of her own happiness. Extremely traumatic, life-altering issues that seem glossed over. They are there to create tension and drama but are handled poorly by the author. There are a handful of authors that I know can balance such heavy topics - make them integral to the story and characterization - but leave me feeling hopeful in the end. I should've braced for impact and put my emotions and my freakin heart in a bubble wrap like I wanted to do all along.How lavishly are the flowers scattered over the face of the earth! One of the most perfect and delightful works of the Creation, there is yet no other form of beauty so very common. Abounding in different climates, upon varying soils -not a few here to cheer the sad, a few there to reward the good but countless in their throngs, infinite in their variety, the gift of measureless beneficence wherever man may live, there grow the flowers.” There was no point of this book, it could've easily been an epilogue in the first one. It honestly felt like the author didn't have any heart in writing this. It's so mediocre.