Allow me to get my big feelings out of the way first: I LOVE JIM AND KATHERINE SO MUCH!!!

There. Now to more reasonable tones and less yelling.

I seriously adore these two. If you’ve read any other books by Traci at all, you probably already love Jim and Katherine Whitmore. If you haven’t, that’s okay. This book is a great place to start.

Having read a chunk of Traci’s other books (my husband and I are obsessed with the Guardian series), we already know the Whitmores and are big fans. This book was like a special treat, getting their origin story and seeing how so many of their principles and values stemmed from their earliest years together.

The lineup of characters was perfect. From Katherine’s overprotective, though loving, and very politically motivated parents, to Jim’s entire big family, to Mel, Sandy, Ruth, Abigail, and everyone in between, there are a lot of good people to like in this one. They all balance each other out pretty well, and provided for a pretty great story. Except for Sandy. We still don’t like her.

I loved our bookish and studious heroine, Katherine. And though I enjoy baking, I don’t think I would like it at 4:00am, so kudos to her for being so amazing. She is disciplined, thoughtful, and good at helping people. Jim’s honest and hardworking nature would endear him to anyone, but throw in his political aspirations and his intrinsic goodness, and you have a winner. I really love him. I don’t even care what his political party is, I’d vote for him for president.

I kind of loved that this book has a different pace than other books I’ve read from Traci. It’s a bit slower paced, and romance is the main plot. I loved it! There is still some mystery involved, and every page I wondered when things would get crazy. Then I was still a little caught off-guard when it happened. So good!

Also, I’ve never read a book that made me crave something more. You’ve been warned. I’m pretty sure I need a permanent supply of cinnamon rolls now. Maybe I’ll have time to make some more tomorrow, because I need them! (Tip: if you need Katherine’s recipe for cinnamon rolls, you’ll find it in the Fiction Trio Cookbook.)

*many thanks to the publisher and author for the copy. All thoughts are my own. ( )

If you’ve read any of Traci Abramson’s fabulous series, you’ve heard of Jim and Katherine Whitmore. Whether it’s Katherine’s steady hand, amazing cinnamon rolls, or Jim’s integrity as a politician, they’re a couple to admire who I wish was real. I’ve been longing to get their backstory of how they fell in love and rose to such great political heights. Whether you’re familiar with the Undercurrents, Saint Squad or Guardian series or not, this is the fantastic prequel to them all and a definite must read.

After constantly being in the limelight as a Congressman’s daughter, Katherine Hudson is ready to follow her college dreams which definitely don’t include politics. When her sister brings home a handsome friend, Katherine’s intrigued. She’s also thrilled that he seems to be interested in her and not because of who her father is. But, when she finds out he’s got political aspirations, she thinks she should end things before they get started.

Jim Whitmore wants to be President someday. He excels at his classes and is often referred to as a Boy Scout, or Eagle Scout as Jim would prefer, because of his honesty and desire to serve others. He also has strong faith which guides his decisions. When he meets Katherine, he’s immediately attracted to her and wants to get to know her better. His active pursuit of her is stymied though when she learns of his political dreams. Jim definitely has his work cut out for him if he’s going to win her heart. Then, when he’s accused of stealing money, he has to do everything he can to prove his innocence and restore his sterling reputation.

I loved Jim and Katherine and the nostalgic trip back to the 1980’s. I loved Jim’s cute, sometimes awkward yet endearing way of courting Katherine and his willingness to care for her and her needs. Whether it’s bringing her pizza or helping her with finance classes, he’s there to support her dreams as much as pursuing his own. I loved their romance and the way they worked together to solve the mystery behind the false accusations. I also loved Katherine’s baking. Cinnamon rolls are her specialty, but be prepared for other mouthwatering desserts while reading this book! I loved how she supported and believed in Jim even when things were at their worst.

Highest of recommendations to this romantic, fast paced mystery with a touch of faith! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. ( )