In this heartfelt romance, Ellie embarks on an unexpected love affair with Ash during a brief but intense interrail trip through Europe. Their three unforgettable days in Lisbon lead to plans for a reunion in Spain, but when Ash doesn’t show up, Ellie is left heartbroken. Fast forward six years, and Ellie is happily working as a gardener at a historic estate in Wales when Ash reappears, revealing the reasons behind his disappearance. As old feelings resurface, Ellie must confront her past and make a life-altering choice about love and loyalty.

I genuinely love books that explore missed connections; there’s something so hypnotic about two people clearly meant for each other, only to be thwarted by circumstance. Normally, I’m not a fan of “instant” connections, but this one felt remarkably authentic. It was reminiscent of two people meeting in a bar, engaging in a meaningful conversation without the pressure to rush into anything physical. Instead, they simply enjoyed each other’s company.

This story beautifully captures the classic “right person, wrong time” trope, which I think lends itself to some of the most satisfying conclusions. The emotional depth and the journey of the characters left me both hopeful and heartbroken, ultimately ending in satisfaction.

Thank you to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Putnam | G.P. Putnam’s Sons for the ARC.