Rating: 4 out of 5.

This is the fifth and final book in the Carrington Cove series and am I so sad to see it go. This book was the perfect send off, however, where the Shepard’s baby girl Hazel finally gets her HEA. Who knew it would end up being Gage, the nephew of Diane, an elderly lady she befriended after taking pictures of the Diane’s dog. Somehow Diane knew that Hazel and Gage were perfect for each other, but since both had sworn off love and relationships, Diane had to get sneaky to bring them together.

Diane’s will stipulates that Hazel and Gage must get married and stay married for at least 6 months and if they do that, they will both inherit $5 million each. The couple eventually agrees to wed in name only, and are determined to ride out the 6 months, inherit the money, and then go back to their separate lives. Yeah, right.

Hazel is sweet but strong, and tries very hard to keep her defenses up because she’s sick and tired of looking for Mr. Right and being disappointed. Who cares that Gage happens to be the man she’s been obsessed with for months after a meet-cute at a local coffee shop. She’s not falling for this guy. He doesn’t want a relationship and is only in it for the money. It’s just business… Ha ha ha. We plan and God laughs.

Gage has decided he can’t have a normal life with a partner, family, and kids due to a health concern. So, he works and shuts life out so he doesn’t form attachments. Living with Hazel may be a test of his wills, but he can get through it without catching feelings. No matter how sweet, loving, strong, and determined she is. Not to mention hot. He’s honoring his aunt’s wishes, and no more. Plus, who can’t use $5 million?… Uh huh, keep telling yourself that Gage.

I love that the book brings back all of the brothers and their wives in the story and they play a much more prominent role in this book than the family did in the previous books. It’s probably because the brothers are so protective of Hazel. The family’s mom continues to be a rock to her family, and provides much comfort and wisdom to Hazel as she struggles dealing with Gage. While the couple initially treat each other as roommates, as they get to know the other they start doing those small sweet things that couples do to let the other know that they get the other person and are thinking of them. Those small acts sometimes mean way more than the big displays of affection.

As is usually the case, everyone around them see the couple are falling for each other way before they acknowledge it themselves. The only thing that spoils the story (for me at least) is the third act miscommunication wrench that is thrown in toward the end. It made sense for the story, and it resolves fairly quickly. I just dislike the trope, so that’s a me thing that may not bother other people.

I listened to the audio of this book and the narrators did a fantastic job. They brought the characters to life and were able to convey their emotions so well. I highly recommend you listen to this book if you like audiobooks.

I received a complimentary e-copy and audiobook from the Author Agency. All opinions are my own.