"Hoping for Hawthorne" by Tara Grace Ericson

 

Tara Grace Ericson's new Bloom Sisters Series starts with a prequel novella—about their brother! Hawthorne Bloom grew up in a family with six sisters, and he's watched each of them come into their own and contribute to the family business in some way. He wanted more—his own company, his own ventures. But when life knocks him down and sends him back to the farm, Hawthorne isn't sure where his worth comes from anymore.

Avery Chase is excited to be back in her hometown. Her hope of reconnecting with old friends is snuffed when she sees Hawthorne Bloom—her old crush—hanging around some really questionable acquaintances and harassing their waitress. When she speaks up, it's clear Hawthorne doesn't remember her. Maybe that's for the best, even if his younger sisters were her best friends once upon a time.

Challenged by the set down from a woman who clearly knew him even if he couldn't recall her, Hawthorne begins taking stock of his life. Is he really contributing to the world? Could he ever find a place where he could use his strengths, just like his sisters have, without letting other people down? 

This story delves into deep issues while bringing hope to the reader. The romance is sweet, and you can see the beginning threads of future books in this series as we get to know Hawthorne's sisters. I can't wait to read more about the Bloom family!