Runaway Love – Melanie Harlow

Runaway Love follows Austin Buckley, a grumpy single dad raising twins while managing his family’s business in the charming town of Cherry Tree Harbor. When his sister leaves for a PhD program, Austin needs a nanny—fast. Enter Veronica Sutton, a runaway bride who shows up in a wedding gown, fleeing a disastrous engagement. Despite her lack of experience, Veronica’s wit and warmth win over Austin’s kids and the entire town, leaving Austin torn between his practical instincts and his growing attraction to her.

As summer unfolds, Austin and Veronica navigate a simmering chemistry they both try to ignore. But when a spontaneous night together ignites a fiery connection, Austin’s carefully controlled world begins to unravel. Veronica’s free-spirited energy challenges his rigid routines, while her vulnerability softens his guarded heart. Yet both know their time is limited: she’s a temporary fix, and he’s a man who avoids risks.

The story explores themes of trust, second chances, and the courage to embrace love when it’s least expected. Melanie Harlow crafts a tender yet steamy narrative, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with heartfelt struggles. Austin’s journey from a duty-bound dad to someone willing to fight for happiness is mirrored by Veronica’s transformation from a woman fleeing her past to one ready to build a future.

Set against the backdrop of a tight-knit coastal town, the novel celebrates community, family, and the messy beauty of real-life romance. The supporting cast, including Austin’s quirky family and the meddling townsfolk, adds warmth and humor. Harlow’s signature blend of banter, emotional depth, and sizzling tension makes Runaway Love a standout in small-town romance.

Readers will root for these flawed, relatable characters as they stumble toward love, learning that sometimes the biggest risks lead to the sweetest rewards. Perfect for fans of feel-good stories with a dash of angst and a lot of heart.