January 1, 2026 – My Sanctuary

Thirty Flirty and Forever Alone By Christine Riccio

When your name literally means “forever alone,” it takes a lot of positive self-talk to stay optimistic in the hellscape that is dating. But on the cusp of thirty, Rikki Romona is determined to find her person.

Columnist, therapist, podcaster, entrepreneur—Rikki is an overachiever who thrives on schedules. She can absolutely handle two weddings in two days, and lock down someone to drag along as a plus-one.

And yet, spoiler: She doesn’t.

Rikki finds herself flying hopelessly solo at a themed wedding in New Jersey. A lonely Rapunzel waiting for her Flynn.

Enter Reed Tyler: writer, podcast producer, wannabe actor. Surprisingly single with startling blue eyes, he seems perfect. The catch? He lives kind of far away, so dating him would be a bit of a hike. Like an intense, all-the-way-across-the-country hike.

After one unforgettable night together, Rikki’s sure this is the end. But as she braces herself for heartache, the universe, it seems, has other plans…

Could their first dance…

Last a lifetime?

Fanny Cunningham is only in small-town Crystal Hill to help her aging dance teacher. She has no time for local handyman Lawson Carl, who tried—and failed—to charm her ten years ago. But when she needs a partner for an instructional dance video, he’s her only option. Teaching Law to dance is more fun than she imagined. And she may end up with bruised toes, but she feels strangely safe in his burly arms. Could the man who stumbled into her studio be her perfect partner on and off the dance floor?

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming, small-town romance brimming with humor, heart, and just the right touch of nostalgia. Fanny Cunningham never intended to stay in Crystal Hill beyond helping her aging dance teacher. She certainly didn’t expect to run into Lawson Carl—the local handyman who once tried, and spectacularly failed, to win her over ten years ago. But when she needs a partner for a dance instructional video, Lawson becomes her only option. What begins as a reluctant arrangement soon turns into something tender, funny, and unexpectedly intimate.

Lawson, with his rugged charm and easygoing nature, proves to be more than just a willing dance partner. As Fanny teaches him the steps, she finds herself opening up in ways she never imagined. Their banter is witty, their chemistry undeniable, and even their missteps on the dance floor become moments of connection. The townsfolk, ever meddling and matchmaking, only add to the story’s warmth and humor.

Overall, , this is a story about trust, second chances, and discovering that sometimes love finds you when you least expect it. Sweet, funny, and deeply heartfelt, it is a romance that dances straight into your heart.

My Rating