Book excerpt: It takes courage to share your secrets—and your heart . . . Adopted as a child by a tech billionaire, Wynter Bates knows nothing about her origins—or the world beyond being privileged, sheltered, and lonely. But she won’t let anything stop her from investigating who she is. Especially after a high-profile scandal involving her father’s past lands her on an island retreat under bodyguard Cullen Whelan's protection—in the guise of being his girlfriend . . . A former military intelligence officer, Cullen figures protecting a pampered heiress will be easy. Posing as a couple is the safest strategy—until Wyn’s persistence and vulnerability spark his curiosity—and a reckless attraction neither can afford. More complicated, what Cullen knows about her past is a truth he can't tell. But as they get closer, wrenching revelations will force them to decide what to trust, who to forgive, and whether their growing love is enough to risk a future together. Praise for Jamie Pope’s Hope Blooms “An intensely emotional read. . . . Ultimately hopeful and romantic.” —Kirkus Reviews “Tender, exquisitely written . . . a poignant, uplifting story.” —Library Journal STARRED REVIEW “A powerful, sensitive novel about family, friendship, loss, and the power of love.” —RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars “Beautifully written . . . a story you won’t forget.” —Kristan Higgins, New York Times bestselling author