4.5+ stars 
 Nick Walker stepped into a parental figure long before he anticipated the role after his parents died suddenly. As a 19 year old, acting as guardian to his teenage brothers was challenge enough, but he also had a 2 year old sister to take care of, as well as his college load. 
 He meets Mia while trying to find balance in his new situation. Her lightness and acceptance of his responsibilities eased his stress in a time when he needed it most. As they became close, they found a balance in their relationship that quickly included co-parenting, raising Hannah together. 
 But Hannah's abduction knocks Nick's entire being off kilter and nothing in his life remains the same, even after she is found. His already protective nature kicks into overdrive and his need to protect Hannah costs his own relationship with Mia. 
 Ten years later, they are face to face once again. They are both still carrying the hurt from their failed relationship, but Nick is determined to right his wrongs. Mia is terrified of being hurt again, and she quickly realizes he could hurt her even more this time around than the last. 
 I loved that the characters, at least in part of the story, have the weight of life's experience coloring their views. Not only do they have their shared history, they also have the separate lessons learned in their years apart. There is a sweetness in the scenes from the past that shows the innocence of their feelings for each other, but also portends the pain they have yet to feel. 
 This was such a deeply touching story spanning decades. It was endearing, heartbreaking, sweet, and deep. Watching the McKinneys and Walkers from a different perspective made it even more fun to read. The McKinney brothers are back, as well as Hannah and the other Walker brothers. This is a great connector between the two families as well as a foundation for a new series following the Walkers. 
 I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.