The opening of this book grabs you by the throat and ruthlessly pulls you in. Beth and Dusty are running for their lives, and Dusty sacrifices herself to keep her love, and their unborn child, safe. In the aftermath, Beth follows Dusty's last wish and goes to stay with Dusty's family. There is much more to Dusty's family, and her death, than meets the eye. Beth will discover shocking truths about them and her unborn child, and maybe find a new beginning with Dusty's friend Isha - if she can let her grief go and embrace new love.

I prefer M/M romance, but have read a few F/F romances (and F/F fiction). This is the first one to make me forget the gender of the protagonists and just fall into the story. The plot is layered, with many surprises supported by excellent character development. The prose is vibrantly detailed and builds realistic settings that readers can feel, and characters they can empathize with. I especially like the variety of multi-cultural characters, and the exploration of Native American beliefs. It can be difficult to build a romance after tragedy, but the author does so with a subtle hand and a rich story. The sex is understated and tender. Overall, an excellent romance. ( )