Heartward

I like how this story while based on the past with not getting along there isn't there I don't want to like you angst. That both seem to accept that now that they have feelings. The story instead focuses on the drama of what is happening in there small town. I love how this story progresses.

When life throws you lemons, what is one to do? Well, firefighter and Samaritan Tyler Banik of Andrew Grey’s Heartward leaves his hometown. With an innate desire to assist those in need, he first works as a firefighter in St. Louis and subsequently joins the Red Cross Disaster Relief. That is, until life blesses him with the precious gift of a son, Abey. Everything changes in that moment and suddenly his hometown of Scottville looks like the right place to return to. It provides Abey with a quieter life allowing him to heal. However, not everyone is happy with Tyler’s return.

The town council hires Tyler as the new fire department captain. There Tyler confronts resistance from the reigning chief. Without going into details, this man is a self-centered despicable piece of work. He does everything in his power to get rid of the “new guy” while harboring his own dirty secrets that circulate as rumors around town. On the bright side, he has met his match in Tyler, who has the town’s best interest at heart, even at his own expense.

In a twist of fate, Tyler is unexpectedly reunited with Alan Pettaprin. Tyler and Alan share a contemptuous past, one harboring secret desires they hid behind, using the harsh treatment that only insecure teenagers can dish out. Alan sees his chance to right those wrongdoings and seize his heart’s long-held desire.

As Abey begins to flourish with his second chance at life, so do Tyler and Alan. Abey finds love and support with his Grammy and Grampy, and in parallel, the secret desire between Tyler and Alan blossoms into a supportive and loving bond. Together, Tyler and Alan secretly work to reveal the unscrupulous nature of the chief with the support of many wonderful secondary townsfolk. Some of these folks need time to come around and let go of the past and their ability to adjust their thinking is a thing of beauty.

The mystery that unfolds isn’t a secret, well the details may be fuzzy, but the gist is front and center. We’re in on the source of the conflict early on, watching the methodical and unselfish way Tyler and Alan pull pieces together, always keeping the town in mind as they take the necessary steps and precautions to protect themselves… and for their town to win in the end.

Heartward is many things, including mystery and suspense, ignorance and intolerance, a good ole boys’ mentality. But most importantly love, support and a second chance shine through the murky depths of despair. Andrew Grey does a terrific job laying out the facts and emotions while keeping a steady pace that is engaging. As the mystery unfolds, the romance steadily builds with the support of many well defined and interesting folks.

POV ~> Third-person

I've read many books by this author and am more accustomed to the hopefulness, shining light, and optimism that his books tend to exude. This one had some darker undertones that were subtly addressed, adding a minor element of mystery and suspense. That, in no way, took away from the amount of heart that was packed in there though.
Old high school enemies meet again and get a second chance to do things right this time.
An orphaned child that had suffered untold horrors in the first few years of his life is rescued and finds a loving family.
This story was told in a way that allowed the reader to feel all the emotions. Very well done. Abey was a delightful character.
Sex scenes are present but are more fade-to-black than explicit. The epilogue provided a flash-forward conclusion that was enjoyable and solid.

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Rating: [PG-13] ~ Score: 4.425 ~ Stars: 4
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⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from publisher and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐