Discovering Love in Unexpected Places: A Review of Here and Now (Ember Falls #2) by Corinne
As I dove into Here and Now, the second installment in the Ember Falls series by Corinne, I couldn’t help but feel the warm embrace of familiarity wrapped in a new journey. The cozy, small-town vibe caught my attention right from the start, but it was the premise of single parenthood and the complexities of human connection that truly drew me in. With its release on February 19, this book serves as the perfect palette cleanser for anyone craving a heartwarming romance layered with depth and tenderness.
In Here and Now, we follow Penelope, a compassionate mother trying to make a fresh start in the picturesque town of Ember Falls with her six-year-old son, Kai. The challenges of her past linger, weighing on her heart as she grapples with the fear of putting down roots. Her character felt incredibly relatable—her selflessness involves careful navigation, particularly as she slowly lets the local summer hockey coach and high school teacher, Miles, into her life. What truly resonates in this narrative is the slow burn of their relationship, where Miles is patient and understanding, never pushing Penelope beyond her comfort zone.
Corinne’s writing style is a delightful breath of fresh air—each chapter flowed seamlessly, leaving no major plot holes and instead offering a cohesive story that feels genuine. The pacing is well-timed, with moments of suspense sprinkled throughout that keep the reader engaged without overwhelming them. The writing emits warmth and understanding, making it effortlessly easy to connect with each character.
What truly stood out for me was the dynamic between the characters. Penelope is beautifully portrayed as a “bolter”—a term I couldn’t help but resonate with. Her reluctance to embrace the possibility of love due to her overwhelming past made her journey toward happiness all the more satisfying. I found myself cheering her on as she softened toward Miles, a man who embodies kindness and patience like no other.
Miles’ determination to break down Penelope’s walls spoke volumes. His daily coffee run—drinking something he despises just for the sake of seeing her—seems like an almost poetic representation of love in its purest form. It’s these small acts of thoughtfulness that elevate the story, reminding us that love often requires sacrifices, however tiny they may seem.
Kai, the young and insightful son, adds yet another layer of charm. His bond with Miles was heartwarming; it felt natural and genuine, highlighting the beautiful theme of found family in this narrative. Their interactions reflect a tender kind of love that crosses the boundaries between friends and family, making me smile every time they were together.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Here and Now to anyone who loves small-town romances and stories centered around single parents. It is a heartfelt exploration of vulnerability, acceptance, and the beauty of second chances. As my heart swelled with joy witnessing Miles and Penelope’s connection, I found comfort in the notion that love can indeed blossom, even after the hardest of times.
This book left me feeling light and hopeful, a much-needed reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. So, grab a cup of coffee—perhaps a latte you don’t typically enjoy—and settle into Ember Falls; it’s a journey worth taking.
Discover more about Here and Now (Ember Falls #2) on GoodReads >>