This story played with my heart...shattering it, teasing it, and, ultimately, fusing it back together. I've been waiting for this book since the very first time I met Zachariah in Bittersweet, the first installment of this series. I found him intriguing from the very start and did a dance of joy when I found out he would be getting his own book. His story did not disappoint! 
 In this book I learned more about Zach's tragic background and realized how much strength was hidden within this quiet, reserved, hard-working man. The hardships he's endured could have made him a bitter man. Instead, Zach is caring, big-hearted, and a tender soul...a real gentleman! His love for the Shipley family and his his gentleness and patience with Lark just embedded him more deeply into my heart. Lark is strong - stronger than she realizes. She used to be a wild child, a fearless girl. But, having lived through a horrific incident, she's left with nightmares and scares she didn't have before. Meeting Zach is something she didn't expect but, with his help, she begins to see the world differently. Their romance is a slow burn...and oh so delicious!! These two take each other beyond what each believes is possible and they take the reader on a heart-warming ride. 
 I highly recommend this series. The books get better and better as the series progresses and I, for one, am sorry that this is the last installment. I loved Griffin, Jude, Zach...and the girls who turned their heads. These stories tore at my heart and made me smile. They taught me about harvesting apples and making cider...and they made me want to plan a trip to Vermont very soon. As always, Ms. Bowen has written a story that pulled me in and given me characters that I couldn't help but love. I can't wait to see what she has up her sleeve next!!