Elusive Love

Melanie A. Smith

May 2025 · Alpine Ridge Book 4 · Wicked Dreams Publishing

About this ebook

Sometimes the love you thought you lost is the one that leads you home...

Rae Donovan thought she had love all figured out … until, after a tragic accident, her high school sweetheart Luke left town, breaking her heart. In the decades since, Rae has put the past behind her, content with her quiet life working at the local bakery her family started in the charming mountain town of Alpine Ridge. But when Luke returns, Rae's world is turned upside down.

Luke McMillan never forgot his first love, even as duty took him far from home, and tragedy made him a single father. Now back in Alpine Ridge as its new fire chief, he's determined to win Rae's trust — and her heart — once again. But a secret from his past threatens to destroy their second chance at happiness.

As Rae and Luke navigate the challenges of reuniting, they must confront their histories and decide if their love is strong enough to overcome the wounds of the past. Will they find their way back to each other, or will the scars of yesterday keep them apart forever? In this emotional tale of forgiveness, growth, and second chances, Rae and Luke must learn that sometimes the most elusive love is the one you never truly lost.

Ratings and reviews

A swoon-worthy second chance romance! Rae has been a staple in the Alpine Ridge since book one in the series and she is finally getting her story! Rae has been a staple in Alpine Ridge since book one, working at the bakery and helping plan events for her friends when she hears the news about the new fire chief. And the new fire chief happens to be her ex-boyfriend who left under mysterious circumstances. There's an adorable 12 year old and wonderful friends to round the story out!

This is such a good addition to the "Alpine Ridge" small town series. It is a heart warming and emotional story about Rae and Luke. This is delightful second chance romance with a little tragedy. I enjoyed how their story develops and love the characters.

What a read! An excellent addition to the amazing Alpine Ridge series. Rae and Luke take the story forward (although it could be read as a stand alone), and in doing so, expose shenanigans history has distorted and tried to hide. All the previously loved characters throughout the series are expertly interwoven in this story and brings meaning to 'friends are the family we choose for ourselves'. Smith navigates the challenging topics touched on with sensitivity and understanding. This is a must..

About the author

Melanie A. Smith is an award-winning, international best-selling author of steamy romance with smart, self-sufficient heroines and strong, swoony book boyfriends with hearts of gold. A former engineer turned stay-at-home mom and author, when Melanie is not lost in the world of books you’ll find her spending time with her husband and son, crafting, or cross-stitching.