Summary

This delightful and touching new novel from the New York Times bestselling author of dozens of treasured romances returns readers to the picturesque Texas town of Honey Creek—a place where friendship and warm welcomes can be relied on, and love always finds a way. In this heartwarming new story, an Army Ranger who’s been hurt before may finally find the woman who can mend his broken heart.

Benjamin Monroe is pretty sure how his life will play out. He’ll continue teaching chemistry in his small college, and spend his free time biking through the valley. Eventually, he’ll retire to putter around in his garden and greenhouse.

His colleague, Virginia Clark, is not one for routines. She’s chatty, spontaneous, and bubbly, and before Benjamin realizes what happened, she’s talked him into collaborating on a research project—studying the mating habits of college students. Virginia knows her desire to work with Benjamin is motivated by more than the potential prize money . . . and hopes he might not be quite as indifferent as he seems to be.

Ketch Kincaid, one of Benjamin’s star students, returned to college after serving in the army. He needs something to get his mind off his recent breakup and collecting research data might do it. And there’s another distraction on the horizon—a woman who looks like she, too, knows about heartache.

Soon enough, their project, “The Chemistry of Mating,” is gaining notoriety. Friends, neighbors . . . the whole town has become involved. But no matter what the data determines, one conclusion seems inescapable: love follows its own rules . . .

Review

Out of the series so far, this is my favorite book. We are introduced to some new folks whose lives truly lock you in. There was an extra something to this book that stands out more than the rest.

Benjamin and Virginia, are probably one of my favorite pairs in the book to read. These two are such an odd pair but embody the cliché that opposites attract. Benjamin, with his wound up extremely tight personality and with Virigina's free spirited independence, it's hilarious seeing them together. At first I didn't like Benjamin but there is a backstory that when revealed, softened that opinion and make him redeemed. The banter between them had me rolling over laughing at moments. My commentary can't do justice to the dialogue between them but they were really fun to read.

Ketch and Tuesday give me vibes like Pecos and Kerri. Two lost people who find comfort with each other. Their brokenness mended and life brought them where they were meant to be in their lives.

Hank and Millie, well this was a sweet pair. Hank, (Harrison) and Amelia (Millie) are an unlikely pair. They had an unspoken understanding bringing two loners together as one. Their broken childhood and past bond them together.

With a little suspense thrown in, we get revisited by some familiar faces including sheriff Leroy and Colby.

Overall, this was a really good read. I really felt more connected to the characters and are feeling at home in this series. With this group of folks, there is a relatable personal connection to them. There were a mixed of moments that were funny and tender moments that really touch you. I'm really looking forward to the next book and can't wait to see what's in store for Honey Creek.

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