There are worse things than turning 40. However, I can’t seem to evade the worry of my biological clock, and my fear that time is running out. I’ve always wanted to be a mother, and with each passing day, there is a greater chance that might be a dream of mine that will never come true.

Christmas has always been my favorite time of year, but when my Grinch of a landlord decides to raise the rent on my bakery and a new candy shop opens directly across from me, I’m anything but jolly. The problem is that it’s not just ANY candy shop— it’s an over-the-top fancy chocolaterie owned by none other than Ryder Jones— former best friend and the boy who unknowingly stole my heart in high school.

After being left at the altar, Jade Roberts seeks solace at her best friend’s ranch on the Colorado western slope. Her humiliation still ripe, she doesn't expect to be attracted to her friend’s reticent brother, but when the gorgeous cowboy kisses her, all bets are off. Talon Steel is broken. Having never fully healed from a horrific childhood trauma, he simply exists, taking from women what is offered and giving nothing in return...until Jade Roberts catapults into his life.

It all started with an unexpected phone call. Two years after my fiancé passed away in an accident, his father died suddenly, leaving Brad’s adult special-needs brother with no one to care for him. The next thing I knew, I was on a cross-country drive to New Hampshire where I’d be moving in to look after Scottie until I could get him into a group home. The last thing I ever expected? I wouldn’t be taking care of him alone.

I believe that everyone is destined to find their one true love, their happily ever after. That’s why I run a relationship advice column to help those who need a little guidance. Granted, I’m by no means an expert, but it is my favorite subject, and I’ve spent plenty of years studying it as I’ve watched others fall in love.