In the third installment to the charming Hope series by Jaci Burton, Molly Burnett returns to Hope to attend her sister's wedding. There she encounters more than just her friends and family, she also comes face to face with her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Carter Richards.

Molly remains shy and defensive when Carter tries to talk to her. Burton doesn't give insight as to why she acts the way she does until further into the book. However, when you learn of what truly happened to Carter and Molly before she left, it's understandable why she acts the way she does. Burton tackles a heavy subject that will no doubt find a place in reader's hearts and remain buried deep.

Carter has a ways to go to win back the woman of his dreams. However, the sparks are still there. It just takes a little patience and some charm to do the trick. What I loved about this story was that it was so sweet and charming despite the bad things that happen in this book. Burton was able to capture the essence of the small town so well while also touching on heavier subjects that give this series more than just fluffy romances.

Molly faces a tough challenge. She doesn't really have a choice when she gets stuck in Hope. She constantly has one foot out of Hope, Oklahoma because she is too afraid to face her real fears. To some, this might be annoying. I didn't see it that way. I saw it as her emotions and vulnerabilities getting the best of her. That doesn't make her a horrible person.

It's when Molly finally tries to stand her ground and face what she is so afraid of that she will find resolution. Along the way she will make some mistakes, but Carter is there for her every step of the way.

HOPE BURNS captures everything I love about a small town romance. Charm and sexiness blend effortless in an enticing mix, making this story an easy one to devour.