One of the (many) things I love about Boldwood Books is the way they not only nurture their authors as they write new books for us all to enjoy, but the fact that they often make it possible to catch up with others from their back catalogues. On Saturday I visited the crime festival at Harrogate – no, I know, not where you’d expect to find me, but I certainly wasn’t the only one there with more of a taste for romance. And it was such a pleasure to spend some time with author Rachel Dove who told me that one of her earlier books, The Long Walk Back, was being published again today (24th July) – it’s now available as an e-book (free via Kindle Unlimited), in paperback, and as an audiobook, with a totally gorgeous new cover.
I first met Rachel back in 2016 when she talked to a small but appreciative audience at Wetherby Library, sharing her excitement at the publication of her first book after winning a magazine competition – you’ll find my post about it here. And I did read one of her early books, The Flower Shop on Foxley St, and liked it very much indeed (review here). When she joined Boldwood, I absolutely loved Ten Dates – the most gorgeous read with two lead characters, very real people, an enemies-to-lovers story that really put my heart through the wringer, made me laugh and cry and hurt inside, and that left me with an enormous smile on my face (you can read my full review again here). I rather enjoyed Summer Hates Christmas too – another re-release, deliciously Christmassy, but with some really well-handled emotional content balanced by a nice helping of humour, and a rather lovely developing romance I really believed in (you’ll find my review here). I’m still kicking myself that I just couldn’t fit in a review of her last book (yes, another re-release…), Mr Right Next Door.
But there was another book from Rachel, read in 2018, that made such an impression on me I’ve never forgotten it – this was it, and I couldn’t be more delighted that it’ll be reaching a new audience.
A broken soldier. Shattered lives. A second chance worth fighting for?
Trauma surgeon Kate Harper knows how to keep her head in the most high pressure of situations. Although back home in England her marriage is falling apart, out in the desert she’s doing what she does best – saving lives. Until she meets Captain Thomas Cooper.
With his life hanging by a thread, it’s down to Kate to save Cooper’s life. But Cooper doesn’t want to be saved…
Arrogant, damaged and broken, Cooper thinks his life’s over, and he only blames one person – Kate. But when the tables are turned and Kate needs his help, Cooper has to put aside his anger and support the woman who ruined his life.
But in helping Kate, Cooper is given another chance at life. And maybe another chance at love. Because this isn’t the end for Cooper and Kate. It’s only beginning…
And I’m delighted to share again my original review…
I’ve often said that a book I’m happy to shout about has to capture my heart – this book grabbed it in a vice-like grip from the opening pages. And it never let go – it squeezed and pulled from beginning to end, made me cry repeatedly, gave me an achy stomach… then threw me out at the end with a big smile on my face. Yes, it really is that good.
If the blurb makes you think of People’s Friend, don’t be fooled for a moment – this is a book with real power that would blow away the most critical of readers. It’s a romance, but one with a real difference, not just army surgeon and injured soldier but two lead characters that you’ll take to your heart from the explosive beginning to the uncertain end. Kate’s family story gave it additional depth (and some of the most heart-breaking moments, through the struggles of and with her son), but it was the central love story that really did it for me. There’s a scene near the end – at a prize-giving ceremony – that had me in pieces.
The research – and its use – is detailed and meticulous, the psychological impact on a patient in Coop’s position so well described (I loved the mirror…). That carried through to the son too – everyone knows my antipathy towards children in key roles in books, but this one broke my heart into little pieces. The characterisation is just wonderful, damaged people finding joy among the immense sadness of their situation. As for Cooper himself, my goodness, what a wonderful character – his damaged body, his love for his “family”, his immense capacity for love – words fail me. I absolutely loved this book – but I’m rather guessing you can tell.
And I really don’t need to tell you that it’s one you really need to add to your reading pile, do I? You might just love it as much as I did…
About the author
Rachel Dove lives in leafy West Yorkshire with her family, and rescue animals Tilly cat and Darcy the dog (named after Mr Darcy, of course!) A former teacher specializing in Autism, ADHD and SpLDs, she is passionate about changing the system and raising awareness/acceptance. Loves a good rom-com, and the beach!
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Sounds brilliant.
Really loved it Sandy – and thank you for your shares! x