Joan Medlicott's seventh novel in her bestselling series set in Covington, North Carolina, celebrating life, love, and the powerful bonds between the Ladies of Covington.For Hannah, marriage has never meant happily ever after. Having fled an abusive husband when her daughters were young, she's never had reason to marry again...until now. Her business partner, Max, has proposed because he doesn't want her to be taxed on his estate. Hannah is initially reluctant to enter such an arrangement but logic dictates that she accept. Then, after the wedding, she finds herself spending more time over at Max's and is shocked to discover that she loves him -- wildly and passionately! A part of her wants the marriage to become real, but she's scared of losing herself again -- and more scared, still, that Max doesn't feel the same. Right when she desperately needs the counsel of her two closest friends, Grace is wrapped up with her partner, Bob, and Amelia is away in New York, being tempted by the glamorous life. Will Hannah find the courage to pursue a real marriage? And what will happen to her relationships with Grace and Amelia if she does? Read Less