“Watching two people fall in love the way [Smith] writes is just awesome.” — 5-star BookSirens reviewer

A quiet stone carver. A reformed flirt. A bargain that could change everything.

THE FLIRT

Keren Moon’s reputation as a flirt has earned her father’s disapproval—and an ultimatum: reform her ways or be sent away from her young brother. Determined to change, she vows to remain above reproach. But when she encounters Gryffyn Kimbrell, her resolve is tested. The reserved stone carver needs a muse for a prestigious sculpture competition, and Keren strikes a bargain: she’ll model for him if he teaches her restless brother the basics of stone carving. It’s a practical arrangement—until Keren begins to discover the quiet charm Gryffyn hides beneath his stoic demeanor.

THE SCULPTOR

Gryffyn Kimbrell spends his days carving headstones and hearths with his father, but his ambitions reach far beyond the ordinary, and a competition in Truro could be his chance to achieve more. Keren’s vibrant presence unsettles his carefully ordered world, but she also sparks an inspiration he never expected. As their partnership deepens, Gryffyn finds himself yearning for something more than just recognition—something as enduring as the stone he carves.

But when secrets come to light and long-held fears are put to the test, Keren and Gryffyn must decide: will they let their pasts define them, or will they risk everything to carve a future together?

FINALIST - 2023 HOLT MEDALLION