Maple Grove

Lydia Ryder is trouble. It’s what I told myself when I first saw her arrive in our small, rural town wearing stilettos. When she spilled an entire cup of coffee all over herself. And when I saved her from tripping off the sidewalk into oncoming traffic. I lead a simple life as a single dad. I don’t have time for trouble. I’m too busy packing lunches, driving to soccer practices, and trying to fold a damn fitted sheet. But she sees beyond the overworked, exhausted parent I am. She sees the real me. The me that I haven’t allowed myself to be since my wife died two years ago.

I take in strays. It’s what I do. As the founder of the Maple Grove Animal Rescue, I am constantly on the lookout for anything or anyone who needs a little help. Well, just about anyone. Because if Steve Tripp were lying in the fetal position on the sidewalk, I’d...I’d...oh, who am I kidding? I’d help him, too.

Pros to dating Lex Bailey: Sexiest man I've ever seen. Panty-melting British accent. Talented baker. Cons to dating Lex Bailey: Turned me down when I asked him out...in front of my entire family...at my brother's engagement party. Oh, and he has a secret. A big secret. So...no. I don't think I'll be giving him any second chances. But my foster dog? He has other ideas. This dog has issues...and Lex's cat has the cure. Unfortunately, I'm not exactly a forgive and forget kind of person.