Title: Finders Keepers
Author: Nicole Lenz
Publication: May 8, 2025
Publisher: Independently Published
Genre: Romance
Pages: 396
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SYNOPSIS: (From Goodreads)
Bailey Monroe knows one thing for certain. She had to leave. With her young daughter Sophie in tow, she flees from the nightmare of her abusive husband under the cover of darkness, finding safety in the quiet Texas town of Pine Grove. There, she finds refuge in the warmth of the town folk and kindness from Ms. Lucille, a spirited widowed woman who takes them in and offers hope when Bailey needs it most.
Determined to give Sophie the stable life she deserves, Bailey begins to rebuild. But opening her heart again is another story, especially when Gavin Mitchell, the town’s charming veterinarian, steps into her life. Patient and kind, Gavin sees the cracks in Bailey’s armor and is willing to do whatever it takes to earn her trust. Yet no matter how safe Pine Grove feels, Bailey can’t shake the feeling that her past is only a step behind her.
REVIEW:
**This ARC was provided by the author via The Author Agency.**
Finders Keepers is a romantic suspense debut novel by Nicole Lenz and I really enjoyed the read. For those sensitive to domestic violence please read any warnings beforehand.
In a world of duel POVs, this one is told solely from Bailey’s and I think that was a smart choice. Staying in her mind lets the reader see the stream of consciousness that comes with the fear, anxiety, and confusion of an abusive relationship. Toss in the fact that Bailey is a mom and the author has a perfect combination of suspense and desperation.
I also feel that it may have been somewhat of a hindrance to the story. It felt in some scenes that the story wasn’t moving forward and I had a difficult time connecting with the MMC and the side characters. Gavin almost feels like an afterthought until after the halfway mark. This is Bailey and Sophie’s story, of course, but I wanted that emotional spark with Gavin.
I was so excited to read this book and I’m so glad that I got the chance! Nicole Lenz has crafted an excellent telling of what it’s like to live in the shadow of abuse. Writing a four year old navigating these situations and emotions isn’t easy and she nailed it completely. The inner turmoil that Bailey works through is believable and real. The fear gripping her decisions and words comes through clearly. That’s why I gave this debut four stars and recommend you give it a read.
