3.25/5 stars!

When the heroine visits Sweetwater Springs, an accident befell the heroine to stay longer than she had expected. The hero, a physical therapist, helps with her recuperation while trying not to be attracted to her. As the couple fall in love with each other, they encounter changes and choices they need to face if they wanted a future together.

I liked the small-town vibes and the secondary characters. I liked the twist and how it gave depth to the story. The animals were crucial, be they small or large, to the story in the interactions between the hero and the heroine. I did feel that past relationships of one character overpowered the present main relationship in the book, even if said relationships were critical to the story. Otherwise, it was a nice read.

As for the bonus story, it's 4/5 stars. The young couple have a falling out as they viewed different futures for each other and themselves. Basically the story is bittersweet for the young couple as they resolved said conflict; this is a prequel for one character in the series.

**Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy.** ( )

Josie Kellum has a great job as an editor of a major New York magazine. She is pulled away from her job due to an injury sustained while she is visiting her friend in Sweetwater Springs. The doctor recommends a couple of sessions of physical therapy in order for the injury not to become more serious. Then, due to other circumstances, her stay is extended. But, oh, her therapist... Oh, so sexy!

Tucker Locklear hasn't so much looked at another woman since the death of his wife. Why is it that his newest patient, albeit temporary. Josie Kellum affects him? This is on a deep level from the moment they met. He is really glad she was planning to leave soon. Also, his policy is not to date patients. However, when he finds out she is staying longer than planned, Tucker begins to worry. Will he be able to hide his attraction to the stunning Josie? Also, how can he think about another woman. He still hurts from losing his wife. What if he loved and lost again? He just cannot take the chance.

This was a wonderful and effective story. The romance between Tucker and Josie was very touching. It was true to form with Tucker resisting a chance at love due to what he went through with losing his wife. Also, Josie's life was in the big city, not in a small town. Even if the people - and a chance at love - were compelling.

There was another character in Springtime at Hope Cottage that bears mentioning. That is young Maddie, a physical therapy patient of Tucker's. I found this portion of the story quite engrossing. Annie Rains has done a fine job of weaving a romance with another story that blended in quite well. The conflicts in this story balanced with a very pleasant ending. I really enjoyed this book and Annie Rains works.

This is part of the Sweetwater Springs series. The first of this series is Christmas as Mistletoe Lane. My review follows. The next book in the series, Meet Me at Sweetwater Springs, is due for release in August.

Many thanks to Forever and NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion. ( )