I really enjoyed this clean, love-inspired, romance. I bought this at a local Goodwill store and I voluntarily chose to review this story. I've given this a 4.5* rating. This is not for the under 18 readers. Parts of this seemed to move a little slower but there was more sneaking around by the bad guys instead of violence. But there is definitely are bad guys. A little bit of fun with big eaters ( )

Good book, mostly a mental suspense story, concluding with an excellent physical confrontation. Hillary is a Norwegian special ops soldier who came to Conard County to pay her respects to Brigid, a good friend who died in action. While at Brigid's grave, she noticed a man standing at Brigid's husband's grave. Trace grew up with Brigid and Allan, and they were all best friends. He refuses to believe that Allan committed suicide over Brigid's death and believes that Allan was murdered.

I liked the first meeting between Hillary and Trace. They recognize each other for what they are: the best of the best. Therefore, it is no surprise that Hillary understands Trace's concerns when he explains them to her. Hillary feels that the best way to honor Brigid is to help Trace uncover the truth, but it won't be easy. Allan may have left Trace all of his passwords in his will, but his files were a disorganized mess. Brigid's handwritten letters were the same. But as Hillary and Trace read through them, it became evident that Brigid stumbled on something dangerous. I could feel Trace and Hillary's frustration as they tried to put all the pieces of the puzzle together. I could also feel their relief and concern when they found something that led them in the right direction.

It didn't help that both Trace and Hillary felt that they were being watched. In this book, we also get the viewpoint of the person watching them, who is also the one behind Allan's death. Following his thoughts and actions showed that Trace and Hillary found something that went far deeper than expected. It was also evident that he felt in over his head but had no way out. The more fearful he became of discovery, the greater the danger to Trace and Hillary. The final confrontation was terrific, with fantastic teamwork and a well-done resolution.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Trace and Hillary. They connected quickly thanks to their similar careers. I loved watching them together, from their long-distance running to their meals at Maude's diner to searching for the truth. I loved how neither beat around the bush when it came to feelings and desires. Their attraction grew quickly even though neither believed there was any future in it. One of the greatest things was Trace's respect for Hillary, both professionally and personally. I especially liked that he could be protective while still believing in her ability to take care of herself. As they spent more time together, Trace and Hillary realized that what they felt was more than casual but didn't know what they could do about it. I loved how the danger they experienced showed them what was important. The ending was terrific. ( )