True North: Golden Falls Fire Book 1, Scarlett Andrews

The plot was kept simple and I truly appreciated this.  There was the romance with its own difficulties and Cassie's past.  Those two things were solid through the entire story and there weren't any unnecessary complications, additional dramas, or extra players added to increase tension.

Cassie has a stalker and his actions are escalating.  She finds an escape that even comes with a job that increases her own career profile.  It seems like the perfect solution to both of her situations being fresh out of a prestigious journalism program and following a near kidnapping.  Excited for her next steps she heads off to Alaska despite her parents misgivings.

Things start off well, more than well if the person that greeted her at the firehouse door is going to be part of her new adventure.  Her first ride-along assignment is with the Golden Falls Fire Department and the handsome, stacked Cody is the first face she sees.  It's also the only face she wants to see from there on out during her temporary stop in Alaska.

Cody is struck dumb, literally, when he sees the fiery and stunning news anchor.  He's been chosen to be her guide on the ride-along and he's both eager for and dreading it.  His shyness is nothing new, but his being completely tongue-tied is.

They get along really well and despite the synopsis making it seem like they have a huge disagreement between city and wilderness, they have differing opinions based on their own experience that opens them up for the lessons that follow.  The lessons are actually practical and not a joke on either of their parts.  While they both feel immense desire for one another Cody is reluctant to get involved with someone who will be leaving.

Annoyed and rejected as a lover but not a friend, Cassie isn't sure of how to get what she wants.  Through the lessons and Cody's gently, intense nature she finds that she's growing to not just like Golden Falls, but love and even crave the wildness that is Alaska.  Their relationship deepens and becomes more passionate and sensual as well.

Just when she thinks she's ready for something more, something permanent with her wild Alaska man, a bear encounter brings up all her fears and insecurities and she decides to run.  Cody thinks it's from him that she's running but with her keeping secrets close to her chest he has no choice but to let her go.  When a group of Boy Scouts go missing she gets the career break she's dreamed of but it also opens her up for her past to join her present.

The way things intensify and are then resolved is really good for the overall feel of the story.  It made sense in the overall plot progression as well as the romance.  I liked where it all ended up and even the sentimental moment at the falls was perfect for the couple.  Just enough sentimentality blended with honesty, feels, and realistic expectations.

I'd love to continue the series because the side characters are a solid support cast while drawing interest into their own situations beyond what we learn in True North.  A great start to what is sure to be a great series.

*$4.08 on Amazon!