REVIEW: One Wish by Robyn Carr

In One Wish (Thunder Point #7) by Robyn Carr, Grace Dillon moved to Thunder Point for the same reason so many others have before her: for a fresh start in life. She left behind her stressful career as a gold champion figure skater, along with her mother’s version of tough love, to open a flower shop in the beautifully rugged coastal town. Years of a demanding schedule left Grace no time for a social life, but her burgeoning crush on local high school history teacher Troy may just have a chance at being recognized as they begin spending time together.

“I’m a high school teacher. I can smell excuses and evasion a mile away. It’s an acquired skill. So there’s more to you? That’s okay, Gracie. Don’t panic. You’ll tell me when you feel safe.”

Troy finds Grace to be a fun, girl-next-door beauty who steals his attention with her naivety. He convinces her to spend some time with him on his outdoor adventures instead of constantly working at her flower shop 24/7. They have a wonderful time together, getting into some mischief, but the attraction that grows between them is too much to deny. Grace is reluctant to tell Troy about her past until it catches up to her and she is forced to explain her complicated life. She only hopes it won’t scare away the best thing to ever happen to her life.

Scott, panting, stopped in the workroom doorway to catch his breath. “Jesus, you took ten years off my life. I thought you shot him!”

“I did, but I shot him with this,” Grace said, reaching for the Taser that lay on the floor where she had dropped it.

“No!” at least four people shouted at once.

Robyn Carr really amped up the humor and passion in this latest installment of her Thunder Point series. One Wish might just be my favorite one yet!

Troy and Grace were so much fun to get to know in this story. They were both close to thirty years old, but when they were together? They were like teenagers who were in their first relationship. I thought there was an innocence to not only Grace, thanks to her sheltered upbringing, but to the slapstick hilarity between her and Troy. As much as I laughed during the Taser scene, I think readers will appreciate their adventure to see huge waves caused by a storm, and when they went on a date at the high school Valentine’s Day dance. It was absolutely priceless and showed that great playfulness they shared as a couple, which I loved.

On the romantic side of things, there was no shortage of fireworks between them. And to me, it wasn’t just that everything was so new to Grace, she and Troy genuinely had something special and they knew it was worth investing the time and patience. Their love scenes were passionate and full of wonder at how well suited they were together, while still keeping an edge of lightheartedness. I also got a kick out of Grace explaining to Troy about the “boyfriends” she’s had. Once you read it, I think you will be able to really relate to where she’s coming from and get a chuckle out of it too!

As always with Ms. Carr’s novels, there was a nice thread of family drama for Grace and Troy to maneuver through, as well as for some of the previous characters. I loved getting to catch up with the couples from other installments and we touched upon almost everyone I could think of which was fun. There was an easy laid-back feel to much of the writing this time, which made this story a breeze to read. But when it was time for the dramatic emotional scenes, Ms. Carr didn’t disappoint in the least.

I think fans of small town romances will appreciate the joy of watching Troy and Grace fall in love here in One Wish. Definitely recommended.

Book Info:

Published February 24th 2015 by MIRA | (Thunder Point #7)

Grace Dillon was a champion figure skater until she moved to Thunder Point to escape the ruthless world of fame and competition. And though she’s proud of the quiet, self-sufficient life she’s created running a successful flower shop, she knows something is missing. Her life could use a little excitement.

In a community where there are few eligible singles, high school teacher Troy Headly appoints himself Grace’s fun coach. When he suggests a little companionship with no strings attached, Grace is eager to take him up on his offer, and the two enjoy…getting to know each other.

But things get complicated when Grace’s past catches up with her, and she knows that’s not what Troy signed up for. Faced with losing her, Troy realizes Grace is more than just a friend with benefits. He’s determined to help her fight for the life she always wished for but never believed she could have—and maybe they can find real love along the way.