He’s a happy bachelor. She’s vowed never to marry. Then a little girl changes everything.
Holden Blackwood’s brothers are all happily married, yet he has no desire to join their ranks.
His family would love nothing more than to see him settle down with a good woman. But the good woman in Holden’s life, Frankie Malone, is perfectly happy with the “friends with benefits” arrangement they share.
Growing up with a mother who thought her happiness depended on men, Frankie learned the hard way to take care of herself, and that’s how she likes it. Until a child comes into the picture.
When Frankie becomes the unexpected guardian of her young niece, Sophie, her treasured independence comes under threat. And a custody battle with people who don’t have the child’s best interests at heart suddenly puts marriage on the table.
Holden and Frankie agree to commit – for just as long as it takes to secure custody of the little girl.
But can their heads really rule their hearts?
Published Date: 21 June 2023
My Review
Holden, the final unmarried Blackwood son, is keeping his arrangement with Frankie discreet to avoid giving his mom and grandma any ideas, at least until he’s ready to express his feelings to her. Meanwhile, Frankie’s sister abruptly leaves her daughter, Sophie, creating a situation where Frankie must think quickly to safeguard her niece. Facing the challenge of Sophie’s paternal grandparents, Frankie seeks a solution to ensure Sophie’s safety and provide her with the childhood she deserves.In response, Holden proposes a marriage of convenience as a resolution to Frankie’s predicament. This allows him to protect both Frankie and Sophie, with even his dog forming an affectionate bond with the young girl.
An exquisite tale blending romantic and familial love. The Blackwoods provided Holden with a solid foundation, and he adeptly tackles the challenge of persuading Frankie and Sophie that they have a lasting place in his life. The heartwarming resolution for little Sophie adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the story. Overall, it is a captivating romance with delightful characters that makes for a thoroughly pleasant read.
My Rating
My Sanctuary 