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🥐A warm uplifting read!🥖

This story of four unlikely friends who crossed paths in unexpected ways is a great fit for those looking for a healthy dose of hope.

Frankie works nights in a bakery 🧁 to avoid the notice of the controlling husband she ran away from. She’s living a fearful existence, but the fire 🔥 in her spirit is undeniable. I think many will find it relatable that she’s in her 50s and essentially starting over. Tam is desperate to hide that he’s homeless while holding on to his job caring for the elderly. The author dug into his story both the with the “why�� of his homelessness and the “how�� of his daily schedule. The difficulties of basic necessities aren’t glossed over. Beth is a nurse whose husband is paralyzed and heartsick that he can’t farm anymore. 💔 She’s under pressure to support them financially and be his caregiver. She is exhausted because they have no family around to help and can’t afford to hire anyone. The author didn’t shy away from showing the difficulties in their marriage as a result of all the pressure. William is in his mid 50s working as a bouncer in a club. It isn’t his dream job, but he has his reasons. He’s being pressured to partake in illegal activities despite doing everything he can to make good choices. He is a compelling character and his arc was my favorite.

The POVs switched between the four characters and that was a great move because seeing each of their worlds up close was the book’s strongest attribute. The steady pacing made for a pleasant read. The ending was a little convenient, but if this group isn’t deserving of a little slice of happiness then I don’t know who is.

Characters from different walks of life finding better versions of themselves standing together made this feel like a hug in the form of a novel.💜 🤗

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an Advance Reading Copy. All opinions are my own.